GUERNSEY were narrowly beaten by hosts Ireland for the small-nations trophy in the prestigious Euronations competition. Seven members of the Bowmen of Guernsey travelled to Galway, in the west of the country.

Poor weather meant that the team suffered travel delays, causing them to miss the Friday afternoon official practice.

With strong winds and driving rain, practice would not have been very constructive, however.

In the main competition – with the national teams of England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland – the weather had moderated but the day was still plagued by strong winds and light showers.

England took all the prizes apart from the small-nations trophy.

The gents’ compound team narrowly missed the medals, placing fourth but beating Scotland and Ireland.

The second day of competition brought much brighter weather and the wind decreased, making it more conducive to better archery.

The English and Welsh teams had to travel back to their respective homes so the remaining four nations were left to compete in the open FITA.

All Guernsey’s archers improved on the previous day’s scores, with Steve Yates shooting close to personal best with 1,311 and taking first place. Toni Robilliard hit 1,272 to place sixth, just missing out on a countback for medal positions. Ian Le Page improved, hitting 1,218 to earn 10th place.

In the gents’ recurve, Derrick Thatcher placed eighth with a score of 929, while Dave Inglis was 10th with 878.

Laura Le Page continued her improving form and hit a commendable 921 to place 12th in the ladies’ recurve.

All members of Guernsey’s team were able to claim Irish stars for their performances.

While in Galway the team learned that their bid to host Euronations in Guernsey had been accepted. The home-nation teams will be competing in this event at Port Soif in 2006.