27 Nov 2025
By Curtis Hirst
I was lucky enough to go to Lausanne to participate in the World Archery Judge Conference with five other GBR international judges.
The judge conference brings together international judges from across the world to share experiences, learn about procedures and receive updates from the international judges committee.Â
This conference we discussed topics around Para Archery, being a Director of Shooting and how to be an effective Chair of Judges to name only a few. We also received updates to rules for field and 3D following Congress in Gwangju this year. There was a talk from a psychologist where we learned about stress management in difficult situations as well as tools to cope with situations. At the end of the conference we had a video call with Juan-Carlos Holgado, the new World Archery Executive Director and we got to ask any questions about judging and the new direction of World Archery events and other areas.
I enjoyed seeing judges I have worked with and meeting new faces as well. It was especially nice that I was with 4 other Youth International Judges, whom I had passed my assessment with in 2023 and I worked with in Winnipeg 2025 World Youth Championships.
I look forward to sharing my experiences with the other judges in Scotland especially as there are new rule changes which will affect our processes and entirely re-written rule books. I cannot wait for the next time I go!
Feeling inspired and fancy finding out more about how to become an archery official and even start your journey as a Field Captain?
Visit our Judging section on the website here.