Justin Tomlinson MP is presented with an arrow for taking part in the competition
Justin Tomlinson MP was part of Parliamentary history by taking part in an archery competition, the first ever sporting contest to be held on Speaker's Green.
The event was organised by the sport's Parliamentary Sponsor Huw Irranca-Davies MP, as part of Archery GB's 150th anniversary celebrations, and to promote the sport ahead of next year's Olympics. MPs and Peers were invited to come and join in the fun, with Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt being the first to hit the boss.
Justin Tomlinson MP said: "It was really good fun, and it was nice to be a part of history in the making. The top archers make it all look so easy, but when you try it yourself you realise how talented the internationals must be - I shot my arrows from 10 metres, they shoot theirs from 70, and I am full of admiration. It's great fun, and very addictive - once you start you keep wanting to go back and improve your score."
Only recently archery came out on top in an opinion poll of young people throughout the country when asked about the Olympic sport they would most like to take up if given the chance. Archery received 27 per cent of the vote in that poll, nine points more than swimming, which came second.
Justin Tomlinson MP said: "Archery has many virtues, and I am not surprised it is one of the fastest growing sports in the country. Anyone can do it; whatever your age or physique, or whether you're able bodied or disabled, which makes it a genuine sport for all, and a fantastic family sport."
The archery tournament at the London 2012 Olympic Games takes place at Lords, between July 27 and August 3.
