I recently had the opportunity to interview the talented wheelchair archer John Stubbs. He competed at the Beijing Paralympics and is part of the archery GB Para team. He is a compound archer and is such an inspiration for others. Here is what John had to say about his archery career to date.
What is your favourite thing about your sport?
The favourite thing about my sport is the fact that, as a wheelchair user, my disability does not stop me competing on a level playing field with the able bodied archers and what not’s better than beating them?
How do you feel your disability positively or negatively affects your ability?
To be honest I’ve never liked being disabled. Who does? But then my sport enables for the time I shoot to be taken on merit.
If you could provide one piece of advice for young disabled archers what would you say?
If you ar sport driven and want to compete, give archery a try. You might just be the next Paralympic/ World or European champion.
What has been your best moment as a disabled archer?
Representing my country was an absolute honour and to be on the back of 25 years international duty. It’s been my pleasure to give back to the sport after all that it’s enabled me to be.
What has been your favourite moment within your career?
My best achievement you’d think I’d say would be becoming Paralympic champion in Beijing but no!!! It was winning my first of four world championships in Italy against my old friend Alberto Simonelli, who is obviously Italian. This then gave me the opportunity to go into the Paralympic arena as, before 2005, compound bows were not recognised by the IPC.
Have you always wanted to be an archer?
I never thought I’d become an archer. It all happened by mistake back in 1993 but I’m so glad it did.
What advice would you give to disabled people everywhere?
My advice to other disabled people is to be the best version of yourself whether that’s in sport or your family and private life.