BULLSEYE FOR THABAZIMBI ARCHERS
Thabazimbi – Archery is more than just hitting a target — it’s about perseverance, learning from failures, and passing down skills to future generations. As Chris Welgemoed, chairperson of the Thabazimbi Archery Club, often says: “It’s the Bushman behind the bow.”
On a hot and humid weekend, the Limpopo South Archery Competition took place on 1–2 March 2025 in Thabazimbi, drawing archers of all ages to test their skills. This provincial tournament showcased incredible talent, determination, and a strong sense of community, with volunteers stepping up to assist with flood-damaged roads, registrations, and meals, generously provided by the Thabazimbi Homeless Shelter.
The Cubs (ages 9–13) had an exciting time refining their skills under the guidance of Cub Master Linette Naudé. With marked distances ranging from 0–30 yards, Thabazimbi’s junior archers put on a strong performance:
- Jeanmari Viljoen claimed 1st place in Junior Female Bowhunter Unlimited.
- Mardus Ras secured 2nd place, while Jean-Jacques took 3rd place in Junior Male Freestyle Unlimited.
- Reinhart Labuschagne surprised with a 3rd place finish in Junior Male Bowhunter Unlimited.
- In Cub Male Bowhunter Unlimited, Jordan Naudé clinched 1st place, with Hannes Venter in 2nd.
The adult and veteran categories also saw fierce competition and remarkable victories:
- HJ Swanepoel dominated with 1st place in Adult Male Freestyle Unlimited.
- Gert Snyman secured 1st place in Veteran Male Bowhunter Compound.
- Aart Broekhuizen took 1st place in his debut competition as Veteran Bowhunter Unlimited.
- Newcomers Marnus Minnie (1st) and Lee Mouton (2nd) made a strong first impression in their Bowhunter category.
- Mathilda Broekhuizen took the top podium spot in Adult Female Bowhunter Unlimited.
Looking ahead, Thabazimbi Archery Club will host more indoor than outdoor events this year in preparation for two major international competitions:
- IFAA World Bow Hunter Championship (WBHC 2025) – 27 April–4 May 2025 at Elgro River Lodge, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
- IFAA ARFAC in Zambia – 4–6 July 2025.
Thabazimbi Archery Club welcomes newcomers and visitors every Tuesday at 17:45 (first arrows at 18:00) at Koos Cronje Shooting Range, Spitskop. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced archer, come take your shot!
Main photo: This event also marked the inspiring comeback of Werner ‘Wittes’ Smit, who returned to competition after undergoing open-heart surgery in 2024. HJ Swanepoel (Adult Male Bowhunter Unlimited) secured 1st place with an outstanding performance, while Werner ‘Wittes’ Smit (Magnum Archery – Pretoria) makes a triumphant return to the range after open-heart surgery in 2024. Welcome back, Wittes!