By TANIA PHILLIPS
WOODENBONG’S own answer to Hawkeye and Robin Hood, Remy Leonard is now an international success story, coming home from the World Archery Indoor Championships with a bronze medal.
Remy, 16, was part of the Australian team that finished third in the Junior Men’s Compound Team event behind Russia (gold) and Italy (silver).
It’s great to see a young boy from the bush taking on the world.
Remy Leonard from Woodenbong headed to Ankara in Turkey to represent Australia by competing in the World Archery Indoor Championships.
Accompanied by his father, Chris, and his grandparents, Sharyn and Terry, Remy found it to be worlds apart from Woodenbong.
The venue for the event was the Congresium, a short walk from the Australian representative’s accommodation through bustling Ankara. The Congresium is a huge, multi- level conference/showroom/exhibition centre.
Archers from all over the world including Russia, Mexico, USA, Ukraine, Iran and, of course, the home team of Turkey took part in the championships.
Remy entered the individual shoot in the Junior Men’s Compound division and the Junior Men’s Compound Team consisting of three boys, Remy Leonard, Devilliers Duvenage and Harri Howden. Prior to meeting in Turkey, they had only interacted on Facebook, but soon found themselves in a comfortable rhythm, and proved themselves capable shooters in the competitions.
In the Junior Men’s Compound division Remy performed well and reached the 1/8 final with a tie leading to a one arrow shoot-off. In the Junior Men’s Compound Team the three Australian boys performed exceptionally well winning the Bronze.
This is an amazing achievement as the team was the only medalists for Australia at the event.
Remy’s calendar is full, and upcoming events include IBO World Championship in the USA, Australian Field Open in Melbourne, Junior National Championships in Penrith and theTrans-Tasman event in New Zealand.
Remy’s medal success wouldn’t have been possible without the support of his family and his community.
The Leonard family give their sincere thanks to all who have helped Remy achieve his first International medal. From those who contributed financially to those who shuttle Remy to competitions and practice.
Remy is still self-funded until he finds a sponsor, so any and all assistance would be greatly appreciated. Should you want to support Remy donate by way of Bank Deposit into the Woodenbong Central School’s Administration Account: BSB 032.001 Account: 156839 for Remy Leonard.
