EXPERIENCED American archer Alan Eagleton loves nothing more than seeing the world courtesy of his chosen sport.
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Eagleton is one of the strong United States team taking part in the World Field Archery Championships at Wagga’s Wokolena Range this week.
The Californian is enjoying his first trip to Australia after previous trips to France, Croatia and Argentina to compete at international level.
A 15-hour flight to Australia was a small price to pay as Eagleton ticked another overseas destination off his list.
“About five years ago was my first overseas competition,” Eagleton said.
“I have travelled a bit lately. I’ve been to France, Croatia, Argentina.
“It’s a great way to see the world.”
Eagleton has loved his Australian experience so far.
“I love it,” he said.
“I think this whole country is beautiful.
“So far we have just got to see Sydney and Wagga. We’re going to spend another 10 days after we’re done here to do a little bit of travelling around the country.”
Eagleton is an accomplished American archer.
He was working his way through the hunter round of the bowhunter recurve on Tuesday.
“It’s going alright,” he said.
“I’m on the top so far.”
Eagleton has come here to claim a world title but had found day two a little more difficult than expected.
“They’re a little bit different targets (on day two),” he said.
“For me, they are usually a little bit easier but today they seem to be a little bit harder, but that’s okay.
“My shooting is down just a little bit. It’s all good.”
Former world champion Aare Lauren was shooting alongside Eagleton on Tuesday.
Lauren has made his way to Australia from Estonia.
“It took quite long,” Lauren explained.
“Half hour from Thailand to Helsinki, nine hours from Helsinki to Hong Kong then Hong Kong to Sydney took 9 hours 40.”
Lauren planned to use the trip to the world championships to explore as much of Australia as possible.
“It’s nice. I’m staying here, two of us are travelling together from Estonia.
“We’re staying five days after the competition to look around the west coast maybe, and some of the national parks.”
Lauren hopes to improve on his performances early in the week at Woklena Range.
“Could be better. Not so well,” he said of his early efforts.
“My usual points, it’s 50 points less. Not good.
“But I’m happy. The company is fine and the weather is still good.”
Competition at the World Field Archery Championships continues until Friday, pending weather.
