the Oxford Observer MAY 2018 Issue 76
the Oxford & North Canterbury Newspaper
Published Monthly 4100 copies
Published at the beginning of each month and delivered to Oxford, Cust, Bennetts, West Eyreton, Eyrewell, Swannanoa, Fernside, Summerhill, Ashley Gorge, Okuku, Glentui, Lees Valley, Carleton, Horrellville, Springbank, View Hill. Copies are available at the Oxford, Rangiora & Darfield Libraries, Emma’s at Oxford, Cust PO Boxes & Cafes throughout the district.
Local World Class Archer Aims Higher By Emily Chapman
Twenty-four year old Olivia had dabbled in archery when she was younger, but then focused on football for some time, before an injury led her back to archery. After doing some coaching, her competitive nature took over and 3 years ago she started shooting. Olivia, along with her team, has just travelled to the Asia Cup in Manilla. After the first ranking round day she was placed 26th, but living up to her nickname ‘The Comeback Kid’ managed to shoot well, and finished 9th after beating the 7th ranked archer. She has two more trips this year - the first to Turkey for World Cup 2, (there are 4), and then to America where she will compete in two competitions including World Cup 3 in Salt Lake City.
Oxford local Olivia Hodgson is gaining success in the world archery scene. After missing out on making the New Zealand Team in February, by 1 point, she had 17 days to shoot a minimum qualifying score to gain a place in the Team.
While working full time she would shoot before and after work, and on weekends. This determination paid off, as on day 16 she achieved the score she needed, and shot a 603, which was the highest 72 arrow ranking score of the season for senior women.
Olivia says that her coach, Petra Baker, has been revolutionary in terms of New Zealand Archery, and has been an advocate in getting the competitors to overseas competitions. The team has a strong bond and support each other, which is important, as archery is such an individual sport. Olivia holds down a full time job as a body mechanic, but the fact that her employer is an ex Olympic swimmer, means that he understands what it takes to be an elite athlete and allows her the time to train and travel. She loves competing against the world’s best and her goal is to be in podium positions very soon. With the drive she is already displaying, she is well on her way to achieving this goal.
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