Nature, Sport, and Legacy: Archers de Ronan Celebrate Easter with Tribute in Brélès

For the members of the Archers de Ronan, the sport of archery is about more than just hitting a target; We see about a deep connection to the natural environment. This philosophy was on full display this past Sunday, as the Saint-Renan-based club gathered in Brélès for their annual Easter tournament, an event that blended competitive spirit with a poignant tribute to the stewards of the land.

The tournament served as a homecoming of sorts for the club, returning to the Penmarc’h woods to celebrate the sport and the community that sustains it. However, the day’s activities extended beyond the archery course, as participants took part in a tree-planting ceremony designed to leave a lasting mark on the landscape they call home.

A Living Tribute to the Chevillote Brothers

The highlight of the weekend was a collective effort to plant trees within the Penmarc’h woods. This act of reforestation was dedicated to the Chevillote brothers, Yoën and Manu, the former owners of the woods. The brothers had previously lent the land to the archers, providing the essential space needed for the club to practice and host events.

By planting these trees, the Archers de Ronan and the tournament participants ensured that the generosity of the Chevillote brothers would be remembered not through a plaque or a trophy, but through a living, growing part of the forest. For a club that prioritizes archery in natural settings, there was no more fitting way to express gratitude.

Recovery and Resilience: The Penmarc’h Woods

The beauty of the current course belies a difficult few years for the site. The Penmarc’h woods were devastated by Storm Ciaran in late October 2023, leaving the landscape in ruins. The recovery of the area has been a labor of love, driven by the relentless effort of the association’s volunteers.

According to Claudine Morvan, the secretary of the Archers de Ronan, volunteers have dedicated significant time and energy over the last two years to clean and develop the woods. This restoration process involved more than just clearing fallen debris; it included the installation of essential infrastructure to make the site viable for larger gatherings, including the creation of toilets and a lunch shelter.

This resilience defines the club’s approach to their venue. The transition from a storm-ravaged forest to a functional sporting venue highlights the commitment the members have to the environment and their community.

The Technical Side: 3D Archery in the Wild

The tournament featured a nature course consisting of 28 3D targets. Unlike traditional target archery, which takes place on a flat range, 3D archery requires participants to navigate natural terrain and shoot at life-like replicas of animals at varying distances. This format tests an archer’s ability to judge distance and adjust for wind and slope, making it a far more dynamic experience.

The Archers de Ronan are affiliated with the FFTL (France Field Tir Libre), an organization that champions the practice of archery in natural environments. This affiliation underscores the club’s commitment to “field” archery, where the unpredictability of the outdoors is part of the challenge.

To help global readers understand the context: Field archery is distinct from Olympic target archery. While the latter focuses on precision at a fixed distance, field archery—and specifically the 3D variant used in Brélès—simulates real-world conditions, requiring a blend of athletic endurance and technical skill.

Community and Connection

The event mirrored the convivial atmosphere of the club’s previous gatherings, such as their December 2025 Christmas competition, which saw nearly fifty archers from various federations descend upon Brélès. The Easter event continued this tradition of inclusivity, bringing together local members and visiting archers for a day of sport and social connection.

The blend of competition and community service—planting trees and maintaining the woods—reflects the broader mission of the Archers de Ronan. They operate not just as a sports club, but as stewards of the Penmarc’h woods, ensuring that the land remains healthy and accessible for future generations of archers.

Key Event Details

• Location: Penmarc’h woods, Brélès, France.
• Affiliation: FFTL (France Field Tir Libre).
• Course Specifications: 28 3D targets set in a natural environment.
• Environmental Impact: Reforestation effort honoring Yoën and Manu Chevillote; recovery from Storm Ciaran (October 2023).

As the club continues to develop the Penmarc’h site, the success of the Easter tournament serves as a testament to what can be achieved through volunteerism and a shared passion for the outdoors. The Archers de Ronan have proven that the strength of a club is measured not just by the scores on a target, but by the roots they plant in their community.

For those interested in following the club’s progress or learning more about their natural archery courses, official updates are typically shared through their affiliated community channels.

Do you prefer the precision of target archery or the challenge of a 3D nature course? Share your thoughts in the comments below.