Archery holds cultural and spiritual significance in various regions, particularly in South Asia, where ancient techniques like the thumb draw and horseback archery are still practiced. These traditions are valued for their physical fitness, wellbeing and discipline.
Notably, archery is one of the five sports mentioned in the Quran.
The success of the Rimaya project has increased participation in archery across diverse backgrounds, reconnecting people with its cultural and historical roots.
Jamila, herself a Muslim, has been pivotal in this effort, creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable regardless of age, ability or background.
The foundation laid by Bi, Pink and others has set the stage to also address similar participation issues for minorities overseas.
“The foundation is there,” concluded Jamila, who is also working on creating a syllabus and discipline recognition for the thumb draw technique in Archery GB. “We want everyone to be part of this great initiative.”
“We know the benefits of it, so my vision is to make sure that everybody is aware of it globally and we can reach out on a global scale, bringing partnerships and building communities across the globe.”
As the project continues to grow, Archery GB hopes it will eventually expand its push for diverse participation into other ethnic minority groups worldwide, championing inclusion in the ever-growing and welcoming archery community.
Images courtesy of Crescent Archers and Archery GB.
