Precision on Horseback: Libin to Host Friendly Mounted Archery Competition

Combining the raw power of an equine partner with the disciplined focus of the bow, mounted archery is a sport of synchronization and timing. On May 31, the Domaine de Rennes et Sens in Libin will celebrate a decade of operation by hosting a friendly mounted archery competition, inviting riders of all skill levels to test their precision in the field.

The event marks the 10th anniversary of Rennes et Sens, a center dedicated to the niche but growing discipline of horseback archery. While the sport has long enjoyed popularity across Eastern Europe, it has historically remained in the shadows in Western Europe. This competition is part of a broader effort to bring the sport out of anonymity and attract new practitioners to the art of the “caval-archer.”

The Competition Format

The day is structured into three distinct challenges designed to test different aspects of the rider’s ability to maintain stability and accuracy while in motion. For those unfamiliar with the discipline, the event allows for horses to be either loose or held, and permits all three primary gaits: walk, trot, and gallop.

The schedule for the competition is as follows:

• The Raid (9:00 AM – 10:30 AM): This opening trial focuses on consistency across three consecutive targets. Riders must execute a “side shot,” a “front shot,” and a “front-side back shot,” with one arrow per target counting toward the final score.
• Tower 90 Triptyque Central (11:00 AM – 12:30 PM): This event shifts the focus to volume and rapid precision. Competitors aim for the central triptych, with every single arrow that hits counting toward their total.
• The Hunting Course (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM): The final challenge is a 500-meter course featuring 10 targets. This segment tests endurance and adaptability, including one specific long-distance shot at 30 meters.

For the global reader, it is helpful to note that “side shots” and “back shots” require the archer to rotate their torso away from the horse’s direction of travel, a maneuver that demands significant core strength and a highly trusting relationship with the horse.

Entry Requirements and Logistics

The event is open to participants aged 12 and older. Because of the specialized nature of the sport, riders must provide their own horses. To ensure safety and standardization, all participants must be in order with their affiliation or hold a valid license.

The competition takes place at the Domaine de Rennes et Sens, located at 8a Rue du Curé, 6890 Libin. While Libin is situated within the province of Luxembourg in Belgium, it serves as a regional hub for those looking to combine equestrian passion with archery.

Event Details at a Glance:

On-site amenities include a refreshment stand and light catering to support the athletes and spectators throughout the day.

The Growth of Mounted Archery in the Region

The shift toward promoting mounted archery in Libin reflects a growing trend among cavalry enthusiasts who seek more than traditional dressage or jumping. By introducing “friendly” competitions, centers like Rennes et Sens lower the barrier to entry for novices while providing a platform for experienced archers to refine their craft.

The synergy required for this sport is immense; the horse must remain calm and steady while the rider releases a projectile, often at a gallop. This level of trust is what defines the “caval-archer” community, turning a sporting event into a shared experience of partnership between human and animal.

Interested participants are encouraged to complete their mandatory registration to secure a spot in the 10th-anniversary celebrations.

The next confirmed checkpoint for the event is the competition day on May 31. We invite the archery and equestrian communities to share their experiences with mounted archery in the comments below.