Your First Competition: A Beginner's Guide
Everything you need to know before entering your first archery competition - what to expect, what to bring, how scoring works, and how to choose the right event.
Distance
Varies (18m–20 yards typical)
Target Face
40cm or 60cm
Arrows
60 arrows typical
Suitable For
Recurve, Barebow, Longbow, Compound
Entering your first archery competition can feel daunting. The terminology, the etiquette, the scoring - it is a lot to take in. But here is the truth: everyone at a beginner or novice competition was once exactly where you are, and the archery community is remarkably welcoming.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know to make your first competition a positive experience.
Choosing the right event
Look for events labelled "beginner", "novice", or "beginner friendly". These events are designed for first-timers. Mentors and helpers are usually present, the atmosphere is relaxed, and nobody expects a high score from you.
Avoid county, ranking, and open events for your first outing - not because you are not welcome, but because the additional pressure makes it harder to enjoy the experience.
On the day
Arrive early. Registration desks often close before the advertised start time, and you will need time to settle in, collect your scorecard, and find your assigned target.
You will be placed on a "boss" (target stand) with two or three other archers. You will shoot together, walk to the target together, and score together. The scoring process involves calling each arrow's value aloud, agreeing with your fellow archers, and writing it down.
The golden rule: never touch an arrow until it has been scored
This is the most important etiquette rule. If there is any doubt about a score (arrow touching a line, or obscured by another arrow), call a judge. Once you pull an arrow, the score stands.
- 1Enter a 'beginner' or 'novice' labelled event - not a county or open event - for your first competition.
- 2Bring: bow, arrows, finger tab/glove, arm guard, water, snacks, pencil, and a positive attitude.
- 3Arrive 30 minutes early so you are not rushing.
- 4Ask your fellow archers if you are unsure about anything - they will help.
- 5Your first score is just a baseline. It will improve. Focus on enjoying the day.
- 6Dress in comfortable layers - sports halls can be cold in winter.
Do I need to be a member of Archery GB to compete?
For most beginner and club-level events, no - or you may be covered by a day membership. County and open ranking events usually require full Archery GB membership. Check the event description.
What if I miss the target completely?
It happens - even to experienced archers. A miss (arrow not on the target face) scores zero (an M). Write M on your scorecard. Do not be embarrassed; move on.
How do I know what my score means?
Archery GB has a classification system starting at Archer, then moving up through Bowman, Junior Bowman, 3rd Class, 2nd Class, 1st Class, Élite. Your first competition score will tell you which classification you can claim.
Will I need to wear a uniform?
No uniform is required at beginner, novice, or most club events. County and national events may require club colours. Check the event details.
Other guides
WA18 Indoor Round Guide
The WA18 is the most popular indoor archery competition format - shot at 18 metres on a 40cm target face. Suitable for all bowstyles and all levels from novice upwards.
Portsmouth Round Guide
The Portsmouth is a classic British indoor round - 60 arrows at 20 yards on a 60cm target face. One of the most popular formats for all levels, particularly known for being longbow and barebow friendly.
WA70 Outdoor Round Guide
The WA70 is the standard outdoor recurve round - 72 arrows at 70 metres on a 122cm target face. The Olympic distance, used at club, national and international level throughout the outdoor season.