Green shoots as Ireland prepares to host Archery World Championships

The real-life Arya Starks, Katniss Everdeens and William Tells will storm Killruddery House next week as the best archers in the world gather outside Bray in Co Wicklow.

Some wear Olympic medals, but the manicured shooting ranges of Rio will be left behind as the rugged woodland terrain provides the challenge for the World Archery Field Championships. More like Winterfell or Sherwood Forest so.

Chairman of the organising committee Kevin MacDermott paints the scene for the 300 competitors and 3,500 expected fans: “There’ll be the spectacular backdrop of the manor house, the Wicklow mountains behind you and the formal lawns and trees, where the finals will be held. It is unique from that point of view and it’s an ideal location for an event such as this.”