Shooting for gold: 15-year-old archer targets Olympics

Having already represented Wales and Great Britain internationally, Ioan Rees, from Treowen, near Newbridge, is determined to reach the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles and continue setting new records.

Growing up with a family of archery enthusiasts, Ioan’s dad, Mark Rees, told Caerphilly Observer how it all started for his son: “We were on holiday when he was around eight-years-old and had a go. It started off as more of a family activity; we all shoot.

“Since then it has become serious for Ioan, however we’ve had to dedicate more of our time to helping him train. He’s a member of three clubs across Merthyr, Cwmbran, and Newport.”

Ioan has already represented Wales juniors and seniors, as well being under-16s indoor and outdoor national champion.

Ioan’s rise to represent Team GB has been one Mark is particularly proud of, as he explained: “Ioan began his journey through Team GB’s Talent Pathway before progressing to the development squad.

“Recently he represented Britain in Romania as the top U16 archer in Britain, taking Bronze in the mixed pairs.

“This week, we travel to Kilmarnock, Scotland, where Ioan will compete again for the Welsh seniors. It’s amazing to see him up there, I feel a mix of nerves and pride.”

Currently out in Munich on the reserves list for the European Championships, Mark spoke about Ioan’s aspirations of competing at the very highest level: “He is hoping to be in the 2028 Olympics if all goes to plan.

“He shoots a compound bow – a modern version of the more traditional bow currently used in the Olympics – if the compound bow is used by 2028 we’re hoping we’ll have a step up on the competition.”

You can email Mark on markrees2@sky.com if you are interested in sponsoring Ioan.