Harry Docherty

Harry Docherty a local blind archer from John O’Gaunt’s Bowmen became the British Champion in the Gentlemen’s recurve B1 class held at Lilleshall Sports Centre earlier in September. He is the first blind Archer from John O’Gaunts to reach this high standard. This consisted of shooting twelve dozen arrows over thirty meters; three dozen at each of four different sized targets.

          Harry who is totally blind came to the club as a new beginner five years ago. It was a difficult learning curve for both Harry and club members as none knew anything about Visually Impaired shooting. But with his persistence, determination and help from the club he overcame the problems. In the past he has also held the indoor title for Visually Impaired Archers.

          Throughout his archery career he has been ably assisted by his wife Wynne, who is his driver spotter and assistant. Her support has been paramount in Harry’s success.

          He uses a standard recurve bow without sights. The sight is replaced with a tripod surmounted with a tactile sight which guides his hand into the correct shooting position.

          With his determination and love of the sport Harry is confident that he will continue to improve his scores.