Les Archers de la Table Ronde: A Thriving Archery Club in Ploërmel, Morbihan

For over three decades, the passion for archery has been alive and well in Ploërmel, Morbihan, thanks to the dedication of Les Archers de la Table Ronde. Founded in 1991, the club has become a cornerstone of the local sporting community, fostering a love for the sport among archers of all levels. The club continues to grow, fueled by committed members and volunteers, and recently experienced a boost in interest following the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

A History Rooted in Community

Les Archers de la Table Ronde’s longevity is a testament to the commitment of its early members, including Michel Burel, who was involved from the club’s inception. Currently led by President Muy Keang Picou, who took on the role in 2016, the club has consistently adapted and evolved to meet the needs of its growing membership. Picou’s leadership has been instrumental in navigating challenges and capitalizing on opportunities for expansion.

From Makeshift Spaces to a Dedicated Facility

The club’s journey hasn’t always been effortless. For years, Les Archers de la Table Ronde lacked a permanent home, relying on borrowed spaces within the community. “Before 2013, we were moved from hall to hall, depending on availability,” Picou recalls. “We sometimes trained in the aged dojo, sometimes upstairs… it wasn’t ideal.”

However, 2013 marked a turning point. The club secured access to a dedicated indoor archery range within the Ploërmel sports complex. This facility, complete with a permanent shooting wall, provided the stability and resources needed to attract new members and enhance training opportunities. The availability of consistent training times, including evenings, proved particularly beneficial.

Olympic Effect and Growing Membership

The impact of the 2024 Paris Olympics was immediately felt at Les Archers de la Table Ronde. Following the Games, the club saw a significant increase in adult interest in the sport. This surge aligns with a broader trend across France, with the Fédération Française du Tir à l’arc reporting a 15% increase in membership following the Olympic Games.

“You can definitely feel the Olympic effect when French archers win medals,” Picou explained. “The sport gets a lot of exposure, and many people come to see us.” This increased visibility has translated into a growing community of archers eager to learn and compete.

Catering to All Skill Levels

Les Archers de la Table Ronde welcomes archers of all abilities, from complete beginners to seasoned competitors. The club currently boasts around sixty members, a significant increase from the forty it had a decade ago. Approximately twenty of those members actively participate in competitions.

“We have a large base of recreational archers, but we support everyone based on their goals,” Picou stated. Newcomers are encouraged to try competitive archery, with opportunities to participate in beginner-level contests from their first year. The club prioritizes a supportive and inclusive environment where archers can develop their skills at their own pace.

The Importance of Volunteers and Qualified Instructors

The success of Les Archers de la Table Ronde is heavily reliant on the dedication of its volunteers. The club benefits from a structured team and engaged members who contribute their time and expertise. Currently, the club has four qualified instructors, with Muy Keang Picou being the only one actively involved at the federal level due to her ongoing professional development.

Equally crucial is the role of the club’s arbiters – Frédéric Paquet, Didier Branlant, and Ghislaine Mahé – all of whom are active and regularly attend mandatory annual training. “Arbitrage is highly respected in our sport,” Picou emphasized. “There’s a real recognition of this function from both archers and organizers.”

Training and Accessibility

Les Archers de la Table Ronde offers a diverse range of training schedules to accommodate various lifestyles. Archers can participate in evening sessions for those with work commitments, weekend and Sunday sessions, and even morning sessions for those with daytime availability. Picou recommends a minimum of two sessions per week for consistent progress or to maintain skill levels.

Safety and proper technique are paramount, with beginners receiving systematic guidance to avoid poor posture and ensure a safe training environment.

Looking Ahead

Les Archers de la Table Ronde’s commitment to fostering a passion for archery, combined with its dedicated volunteers and accessible training programs, positions the club for continued success. The club’s story is a testament to the power of community and the enduring appeal of this ancient sport.

The next scheduled event for Les Archers de la Table Ronde is the regional 2x18m championship in Saint Renan on February 14, 2026, where Muy Keang Picou and Thierry Lorant will be competing after qualifying in January. Keep an eye on the club’s Facebook page for updates and information on upcoming events.

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