Kamloops archers left to right: Miranda Sparkes, Marc Britton and Katie Britton.

Image Credit: SUBMITTED/ Miranda Sparkes

KAMLOOPS — Three Kamloops archers who are part of B.C.’s provincial archery team recently took home prizes at the 3D Outdoor Canadian National Championships this month and now they are heading to the world championships in September. 

Miranda Sparkes, and married couple Marc and Katie Britton will be heading to Lac La Biche, Alta next month to compete at the World Archery 3D Championships.

“I am very excited, this is my second worlds... I was on the national team in 2017 where we competed in France but this year I am kind of more excited because it’s in Canada,” Sparkes says. “This is the first time Canada has hosted the worlds for archery so I am really excited to compete for my country in my country."

Sparkes and Marc both took home gold in their categories while Katie took silver at the national championships held in Prince Albert, Sask.

Marc and Katie, who are originally from Yorkshire, England, say this win is very special to them because they recently became Canadian citizens.

“It’s particularly sweet being able to represent the country we chose to live in the same year we became citizens as well,” he says.

The three local archers made the provincial team back in June in Williams Lake. But in order to get to the national team, they had to have placed high enough last year as well.

“It's been two years in the making,” Marc says. ”I would be lying if I said we didn’t have some nerves but I am excited.”

The local archers say it’s now time to practice as the date for the worlds get closer.

“I just want to give it my best and I hope the occasion doesn’t get to me, I don’t know how I can plan for that but yeah I am looking forward to it,” he says.

Sparkes also says the nerves are also beginning to settle in.

“I feel like it’s only just kind of hitting me that I made the team,” she says.

The trio will also be hosting a fundraiser to support expenses for travelling during the championships. The fundraiser will take place on Aug. 24 and 25 at the Kamloops Target Sports Association.

Sparkes and Britton say there will also be opportunities for people to try out 3D archery with equipment and mentors available on site.

“A lot of people think archery is standing on a line and shooting in circles,” Marc says.”3D archery involves walking a trail and shooting animal targets... it’s a lot more active and fun.”

For more details visit the Kamloops Archers Facebook page.

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