Archer Ann Marie targets spot at the Las Vegas world tests
TOP Ardee archer Ann Marie Murray has set herself a dream of competing at the World Cup in early
2018 - but needs the backing of a community to get her there.
She would dearly love to follow in the footsteps of Ardee’s past Olympian, Beatrice Hill-Lowe, the first ever Irishwoman to win an Olympic medal in 1908.
Already capped for Ireland, she has had to play through the pain barrier following an accident last year.
‘I am many things, an Archer, biker, carer, mum, rocker, wife and part time movie extra,’ she reveals. ‘I took up archery late in life, in my first year I became the Irish Female Barebow Champion and won my first Irish Cap. I broke many Irish records and competed against the Recuves with my barebow, making it to the All Ireland Series Final with my barebow.’
But an accident curtailed her rise this year, but she wants 2018 to be back on a high.
‘I’ve switched to Compound bow which is better for my back. I’ve funded myself to Nimes for the World Cup in January. I believe I have a very high chance of doing well in Nimes and earning lots of points to my World Cup tally. Now I want to raise the funds to get to the final leg in Las Vegas is February for more points which will also increase my standing as an international athlete on the World Archery rankings,’ she stated.
When not training or competing Ann Marie cares for her 94 year old uncle and even knits, sews and crochets to fund her sport.
‘I really appreciate any little help received and I’d really like to find a regular sponsor who can help me move on further,’ Ann Marie added.