Spanish archer pledges 20,000 EUR to people affected by COVID-19 outbreak

Spanish archer Ignacio Gomez Sancha has pledged a donation of 20,000 EUR to those who have been left without a house or food due to the COVID-19 outbreak – if he receives 1000 videos of people practising in their own homes.

“I am doing this to convey motivation so that everybody can see how many people are still training at home,” he said. “We need 1000 videos and have approximately 250 so far.”

Archers can submit videos by contacting Ignacio on social media.

Among those already to take part include Spanish barebow world champion David Garcia Fernandez and British coach Richard Priestman.

Ignacio, a managing partner in a law firm in Madrid, has been shooting for more than three decades. He won gold in the 40+ age group at the 2018 World Archery Masters Championships in Lausanne and is a multiple national champion.

“All my family, myself included, have had COVID-19 ad so far have survived,” he said. “My advice is not to fear it but go to the doctor at the first symptoms. It is key to catch it early.”

Ignacio’s selfless donation to those in need is a prime example of archers offering their support to local communities in this difficult time.

Others include Dutch international Sjef van den Berg who is making mask fasteners on his 3D printer. While Ultraview, the accessory company run by US youth international Kolby Hanley, has pivoted to developing one-size-fits-all respirator masks.

World Archery’s official clothing supplier, Errea, is manufacturing personal protective equipment for frontline healthcare workers in Italy.

Contact us to let us know of other archers helping fight the COVID-19 outbreak.

During the worldwide lockdown, take part in our Beat the Outbreak Online League by joining the Facebook group. A new target is posted weekly.