Moret-Loing-et-Orvanne, France – Sixteen-year-old Benjamin Delmotte has achieved a remarkable feat, securing the French Indoor Archery Championship title in February. Delmotte, who has been a member of the Arc Sport Seine & Loing club since the age of nine, clinched his first national championship at a competition held in Yzeure (Allier). The young archer’s victory marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning career, showcasing years of dedication and rigorous training.
Delmotte’s journey with the Arc Sport Seine & Loing club began when his family moved to the area and attended a local association forum. “I discovered this club when we moved here with my family, at a forum of associations. I was curious to discover this sport and I haven’t left it since,” Delmotte explained, highlighting the pivotal moment that sparked his passion for archery.
A Championship Decided on the Final Shot
The championship, contested at 18 meters, came down to a nail-biting finish. Delmotte recounted the pressure of the quarter-finals, stating, “The most difficult thing for me was the quarter-finals, because everything was decided on the last arrow. Until then, I was tied with my opponent.” This demonstrates the intense competition and the mental fortitude required to succeed at the national level.
His ability to perform under pressure ultimately led him to the final, where he defeated the 2025 U15 French Champion. The victory is a testament to his consistent improvement and the quality of training he receives at Arc Sport Seine & Loing. Pierre Jourdain, the club’s president and coach, emphasized Delmotte’s commitment, noting, “Benjamin is very assiduous and comes to train three times a week. Each season, depending on the scores obtained, some archers are selected for the French Championships. This year, there were two from our club.”
The club provides opportunities for children as young as nine or ten to begin archery, based on their size and coordination. This early introduction to the sport has clearly proven successful in Delmotte’s case, fostering a talent that has now reached the national stage.
Looking Ahead: Outdoor Competition and Future Goals
Delmotte isn’t resting on his laurels. He is already setting his sights on the next challenge: outdoor archery at 60 meters in April. “I am already preparing for next April, with outdoor shooting at 60 meters. That will be another milestone to pass, but I believe in it,” he stated, demonstrating his ambition and determination to continue progressing in the sport. The transition from indoor to outdoor archery presents a novel set of challenges, including varying weather conditions and increased distance, requiring adjustments to technique and strategy.
The Arc Sport Seine & Loing club, based in Moret-Loing-et-Orvanne, plays a vital role in nurturing young talent like Delmotte. The club’s website is https://assl.fr/ and they can be contacted via email at [email protected]. The club actively encourages participation from beginners and experienced archers alike, fostering a supportive environment for skill development.
Delmotte’s success story is an inspiring example of the dedication and hard work required to excel in archery. His journey from a curious newcomer at a local forum to a national champion is a testament to his talent, the quality of coaching at Arc Sport Seine & Loing, and the power of perseverance. For aspiring young archers, Delmotte’s story serves as a powerful reminder that with commitment and passion, anything is possible.
The French archery scene continues to produce promising athletes, and Benjamin Delmotte is undoubtedly one to watch as he embarks on the next phase of his career. His upcoming participation in outdoor competitions will provide a further test of his skills and a platform to showcase his potential on a larger stage.
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