The Virgin Islands Field Archery Federation (VIFAF) has successfully staged its first Outdoor Field Championships, marking a significant step forward in the development of the sport locally. The three-day competition, held at Paraquita Bay from April 10–12, 2026, brought together a mix of local and international archers for a demanding test of skill and endurance.
The event featured three distinct formats, beginning with the Field Round on April 10, followed by the Hunter Round on April 11, and concluding with the Animal Round on April 12. Each discipline presented unique challenges, requiring competitors to adjust to varying distances, terrain, and target styles—core elements of field archery.
Participation from overseas athletes added prestige and competitive depth to the championships. Among the visiting archers were Sherwin Francis, President of the Field Archery Association of Trinidad and Tobago, and experienced United States archer Julie Robinson.
The championships represent VIFAF’s third major event since its establishment, following the David Abednego Cup Indoor Championship in October 2025 and the 2026 VI NASP Nationals in March. The successful execution of these events underscores the federation’s growing capacity and commitment to expanding archery within the Virgin Islands.
Strong Performances Across Divisions
In the Adult Male Freestyle Unlimited category, Sherwin Francis delivered a commanding performance, finishing first with a score of 1505 while maintaining his A classification. Local competitors Kerry Ottley (1358) and Xavier Buxo (901) placed second and third respectively.
Ritseeniyah Georges-Buxo led the Adult Female Freestyle Unlimited division, posting a total of 1320 and retaining her B classification.
Julie Robinson competed in the Veteran Female Longbow category, recording a score of 677. Her participation offered local spectators a rare opportunity to see longbow archery at a high level. Despite describing the course as “brutal,” Robinson improved her Animal Round performance significantly, surpassing her previous record by 64 points and expressing appreciation for the experience of competing in the Virgin Islands.
In the junior ranks, national archer Ava Ghiorse stood out in the Junior Female Freestyle Recurve category with a total score of 783, earning her first classification at the C level. Fellow newcomer Kerry Ottley also achieved his initial B classification, signaling continued growth among local athletes.
Building Momentum for the Future
VIFAF President Reuben Stoby praised the successful staging of the event while acknowledging the logistical challenges involved.
“I am happy that we were able to complete our first outdoor championships. We did have some difficulties finding a suitable location. We wish to thank the Department of Agriculture and the management of H. Lavity Stoutt Community College for allowing us to use their lands at Paraquita Bay. We look forward to hosting more of these with greater participation from local archers,” he said.
Stoby also noted that hosting the championships was a critical step toward securing full membership with the International Field Archery Association (IFAA).
With its first outdoor championships now complete, VIFAF is expected to expand its competition calendar and continue fostering opportunities for archers throughout the territory. The success of the Paraquita Bay event suggests that field archery in the Virgin Islands is gaining momentum.
The federation also extended thanks to sponsors Walkers and Mr. Rentals for their support of the championships.
