The Archers de Dinan, a cornerstone of archery in Brittany, France, will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Salle de la Nourais in Léhon. Founded on December 6, 1975, by Jean-Michel Dantard, the club has evolved from a small group of enthusiasts into a thriving community boasting a strong youth program and a commitment to competitive excellence.
The club’s longevity is a testament to its adaptability and dedication to fostering a love for archery across generations. While numerous presidents have guided the Archers de Dinan over the years – including Jean-Paul Brivot (1983-2004), Olivier Bon (2005-2006), and Yannick Loquen (2007-2009) – a pivotal shift towards youth development began in 2006 under Gérald Béjot. This initiative led to the creation of both a dedicated archery school and a competitive training program.
Currently, the Archers de Dinan has between 110 and 120 members, a remarkably balanced mix of 50% young archers and 50% adults, according to club president Armelle Scavennec. The club also fields a competitive team averaging around 30 archers, with approximately 20 of those being young athletes who have been competing since 2013. In 2017, the club reached a high point, holding the national record for the number of “poussins” (youngest age group) archers in France.
Scavennec emphasized the club’s commitment to providing opportunities for all skill levels. “We have a school of archery and a school of competition,” she stated. This dual approach allows members to enjoy the sport recreationally while also providing a pathway for those aspiring to compete at higher levels.
The club’s facilities have significantly improved over the years. In 2010, the Archers de Dinan gained access to a brand-new, permanent indoor training facility at the Salle de la Nourais in Léhon. This facility, coupled with the expertise of coach Gérald Béjot, a state-certified instructor, has enabled the club to host numerous events and training sessions.
Despite its successes, the Archers de Dinan faces ongoing challenges. A key concern remains the lack of a permanent outdoor training area. “Our main problem remains the lack of a permanent outdoor area for archery practice,” Scavennec explained. “A solution may be found with the Saint-Jean-de-Dieu hospital.” The club also offers field archery training, expanding its offerings beyond traditional target shooting.
The club’s commitment to inclusivity extends to adaptive sports. In 2012, the Archers de Dinan received accreditation from the Jeunesse et Sports organization and, a year later, became affiliated with the Fédération Handisport, demonstrating its dedication to providing opportunities for archers with disabilities.
Armelle Scavennec has served as president since 2010, continuing the club’s tradition of strong leadership. Her tenure has seen continued growth in membership and a strengthening of the club’s position within the regional archery community.
The upcoming 50th-anniversary celebration promises to be a significant event for the Archers de Dinan and the wider community. It will be an opportunity to reflect on the club’s rich history, celebrate its achievements, and look forward to a future filled with continued success. The event will take place at the Salle de la Nourais in Léhon on March 7, 2026, offering a chance for current and former members, as well as archery enthusiasts, to approach together and honor five decades of dedication to the sport.
As the Archers de Dinan prepare for their milestone anniversary, they continue to focus on their core values: fostering a love for archery, promoting youth development, and providing a welcoming environment for archers of all ages and abilities. The club’s next steps involve securing a permanent outdoor training facility and continuing to expand its programs to meet the growing demand for archery in the region.
