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Rubber Ducks & Bullseyes!

12 May 2025 · Platinum Bushvelder

Thabazimbi Archers Hit the Mark at WBHC

Thabazimbi Archers Shine at World Bowhunter Championship

Thabazimbi – Archers from across the globe took aim in a test of grit, precision, and perseverance at the 2025 World Bowhunter Championship (WBHC), held from 29 April to 2 May 2025 at the scenic but rain-soaked Elgro River Lodge in Potchefstroom. Among the 450 participants from 27 countries, Thabazimbi’s own archery club made South Africa beam with pride.

Despite wet and challenging terrain, the Thabazimbi Boogklub delivered outstanding results. Local legend Gert Snyman not only clinched a gold medal, but also broke two world records – an incredible feat in a discipline where distances are unknown and the pressure is high. Snyman also serves as the President of SANIFAA (South African National Indoor and Field Archery Association) and played a major role in designing the championship’s intricate four-track layout.

HJ Swanepoel achieved a fantastic 4th place finish in the Adult Male Freestyle division, while young AJ Swanepoel showed immense promise, taking 5th in the Junior Male Bowhunter Unlimited.

Hennie van Staden and son Werdie (Lephalale) secured two golds between them, proving that archery talent runs in the family. Former club members also made their mark: Gary Bauer earned bronze in Veteran Male Freestyle Unlimited, and Bianca Coetzee (Kleynhans), a former coach and teacher, missed the gold by just two points, claiming bronze in her category.

Adding to the celebration, several club members were awarded Protea colours, marking their dedication and excellence in the sport:

Gert Snyman
HJ Swanepoel
Gary Bauer and Bianca Coetzee (ex-members)

The South African Protea team, composed of archers across disciplines — from traditional bows to high-tech freestyle gear — earned podium spots in almost every category. Their diversity and unity stood as a proud reflection of the country they represent.

Despite the mud and rain, the event was hailed a huge success thanks to the tireless efforts of volunteers and organisers, especially the team from Elgro River Lodge. Safety, logistics, and the unique challenge of river crossings (some tackled by rubber duck!) added to the adventure.

Practice makes perfect! The early morning buzz at the practice range. Front and centre: Hennie van Staden, gold medallist, wearing his Protea colours.

The South African Protea team – the product of years of dedication, precision, and passion. Among them, local heroes from Thabazimbi made their mark on the global stage.

Flying the Thabazimbi flag high: From left – HJ Swanepoel, Gert Snyman, and AJ Swanepoel, key competitors at WBHC 2025.

WBHC 3-D archery pushes skill to the edge — archers shoot at lifelike targets placed at unknown distances. This panther target demonstrates just how tough judging distance can be.