Precision in the Pines: 82 Archers Converge for 3D Competition in Fossano
FOSSANO, Italy — The natural terrain of via del Sabbione became a proving ground for precision and instinct on Sunday, March 8, as 82 archers from across Piedmont and Liguria gathered for a high-stakes 3D archery competition. Organized by Arclub Fossano in collaboration with Arcieri Porta Sarmatoria, the event highlighted the growing appeal of 3D archery in the region, blending athletic rigor with the unpredictable variables of the Italian wilderness.
For those unfamiliar with the format, 3D archery departs from the static lines of traditional target shooting. Instead, athletes navigate a course immersed in nature, firing at three-dimensional animal silhouettes. The challenge is twofold: archers must not only maintain technical precision but similarly accurately estimate distances and adapt to the uneven topography and varying light conditions of the woods.
The competition saw a diverse field of competitors, ranging from seasoned international medalists to rising youth talents, all vying for positions on the podium in a series of rigorous categories.
Compound Dominance: Godano Leads the Field
The Compound division featured some of the event’s most high-profile talent. Michea Godano, representing the Gruppo Arco Fiamme Gialle, secured the top spot in the Over 20 male category. Godano entered the competition with significant momentum, having recently earned two gold medals at the European Championships, a pedigree that translated into a commanding performance in Fossano.
Following Godano on the podium were Claudio Aldrighetti and Marco Ellena, both representing Arcieri delle Alpi, who claimed second and third place, respectively. The female Compound Over 20 category was led by Gelsomina Di Michele of Arcieri delle Alpi, with Camilla Di Pierno of Arcieri Alpignano taking second.
The youth divisions also showcased impressive depth. In the Compound Under 20 male category, Edoardo Berton (Arcieri delle Alpi) took first place, followed by Luigi Belmestieri of Arcieri Arengo. Viola Delucis, representing Arcieri Tigulio, captured the top spot in the Compound Under 20 female division.
Instinctive and Barebow Results
The Instinctive category, which relies more heavily on the archer’s intuition and “feel” for the shot than on mechanical sights, saw a strong showing from the Falchi di Bra. Sergio Cappai claimed first place in the Over 20 male division, beating out Gianfranco Piovano (Arcieri delle Alpi) and Giorgio Allume (Arcieri degli Orsi).
In the female Instinctive Over 20 category, Arcieri delle Alpi dominated the top of the leaderboard, with Laura Filangeri taking first and Manuela Marotta taking second. Giuliana Lonardi of Arcieri degli Orsi rounded out the podium in third. The youth category was topped by Nicole Ingrassellino of Falchi Bra, who secured first place in the Under 20 female division.
The Barebow (Arco Nudo) Over male category saw Denis Brachet Barbuse take the gold, with Luca Capra of Arcieri Clarascum and Giovanni Maio of Arcieri Juvenilia following in second and third.
TIRO CON L’ARCO / Arcieri in gara 3D a Fossano: 82 atleti dal Piemonte alla Liguria.
Regional Impact and Community Participation
The event, identified as the 8th edition of the 3D Arcieri Porta Sarmatoria competition, served as more than just a contest; it was a showcase of regional archery infrastructure. The collaboration between Arclub Fossano and Arcieri Porta Sarmatoria has positioned Fossano as a primary hub for the sport within the territory.
Participation extended beyond the podium finishers. Athletes such as Riccardo Petruzzelli, representing A.S.D. Cantarana C5 – Arcieri della Quercia, joined the field, navigating the wooded course and interpreting the distances between the 3D targets.
To reward the athletes’ precision, the organizers provided prizes featuring products from Osella di Caramagna, adding a local touch to the sporting event.
The success of the event underscores a continuing trend in European archery: the shift toward “field” and “3D” disciplines that emphasize the sport’s origins in hunting and navigation. By moving the target out of the stadium and into the forest, these competitions test an archer’s mental fortitude and environmental awareness as much as their physical form.
Quick Results Summary
| Category | 1st Place | Affiliation |
|---|---|---|
| Compound Over 20 (M) | Michea Godano | Fiamme Gialle |
| Instinctive Over 20 (M) | Sergio Cappai | Falchi Bra |
| Instinctive Over 20 (F) | Laura Filangeri | Arcieri delle Alpi |
| Compound Over 20 (F) | Gelsomina Di Michele | Arcieri delle Alpi |
| Barebow Over (M) | Denis Brachet Barbuse | — |
| Compound Under 20 (M) | Edoardo Berton | Arcieri delle Alpi |
With 82 participants from two different Italian regions, the event confirms a steady rise in the popularity of 3D archery. The combination of technical skill and the natural beauty of the via del Sabbione area continues to draw athletes looking for a more dynamic challenge than traditional target archery provides.
Further updates on regional rankings and upcoming 3D events in the Piedmont and Liguria areas are expected to be released by the organizing clubs in the coming months.
Do you prefer the controlled environment of target archery or the unpredictability of the 3D woods? Let us know in the comments.
