Some achievements are loud and fast. Others are built in stillness: through focus, patience, and quiet determination.
For Grade 10 student Annabelle C., success in archery has come from exactly that.
At the 2026 BC Winter Games in Trail and Rossland, Annabelle placed first (gold) in qualifications and second (silver) in match play in the U-18 Barebow Women category, an incredible accomplishment in a sport that demands precision and mental strength.
And she didn’t stop there. Annabelle also placed first at the 2026 BC Indoor Provincial Championships, setting a new provincial record for her category.
- Taking Aim
Annabelle’s journey into archery began just two years ago, with competition following shortly after. In that time, she has developed not only skills but a deep appreciation for what makes the sport unique.
“I love archery mainly because it’s not a team sport,” she explains. “It’s success through hard work and effort.”
In archery, every result reflects the time, energy, and discipline you put in, and that’s exactly what draws her to it.
“The scores I end up with are for myself, and I can see how far I’ve come.”
While the results speak for themselves, Annabelle values what happens behind the scenes just as much. Archery requires intense concentration, offering her a space to step away from everyday pressures and fully focus on the moment.
“It’s a great way to take my mind off homework and other matters since it requires lots of focus,” she shares.
At the same time, the sport continues to challenge her mentally, helping her build confidence and resilience, even when things don’t go perfectly.
“I’m still learning to be more confident,” she says, “and it’s definitely helped me with perseverance and my mental state, too.”
- Under Pressure
The journey to the BC Winter Games was an experience in itself. Travelling nearly 12 hours due to charter bus delays with her Zone 5 team, Annabelle arrived in Trail ready to compete, settling into a high school classroom alongside other athletes for the duration of the event.
With the competition venue attached to their accommodation, the focus stayed where it mattered most: on the range.
From February 25 to March 1, Annabelle competed, connected with other athletes, and tested her skills at a high level: all part of an experience she won’t soon forget.
Behind every competition is consistent effort. Annabelle trains at her local archery range four times a week for two hours at a time, dedicating herself to improving her technique and staying sharp.
That level of commitment, paired with her focus and mindset, has played a key role in her success so far.
Even with these major achievements behind her, Annabelle is looking ahead. Her next goal is to earn a spot at the 2027 Canada Winter Games as part of Team BC for barebow archery.
“I am going to try for the 2027 Canada Winter Games,” she shares. “That is my next goal.”
With upcoming selection events and eliminations on the horizon, her journey is far from over.
- The Next Target
Balancing training, competitions, and school requires flexibility, and that’s where her learning environment has made a difference.
“Home education has allowed me the flexibility of choosing when to do my homework,” she explains.
With the ability to train regularly and travel for competitions, Annabelle has been able to fully invest in her sport while staying on track academically.
“My teachers are also very supportive and understanding when I communicate with them.”
Annabelle’s story is one of discipline, independence, and quiet confidence, built arrow by arrow, practice by practice. Her achievements reflect not only her skill but her dedication to showing up, staying focused, and continuing to grow.
Annabelle, we celebrate your hard work, your determination, and everything you’ve already accomplished. We can’t wait to see where your aim takes you next!
Share Your Story
Do you or your child have a story of success to share? We’d love to hear it! Whether you’re excelling in academics, sports, the arts, or something entirely unique, we want to celebrate your achievements.
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Let’s continue celebrating the incredible students of HCOS who are redefining what education can look like.
