The host nation had more to celebrate as Casey Kaufhold won her first world title, beating France’s Audrey Machinet 62-52. Machinet, who placed fifth at this event in 2022, never found the same consistency on the finals field as a composed Kaufhold, who executed without hesitation.
It was a mature performance throughout the week from Kaufhold, still only 22, who burst into tears afterwards.
“This is a title that I’ve been chasing for a long time,” she said. “I know that field is new but the world champion title, I knew it was just a matter of time. I honestly just didn’t think field was going to be the first world champion title I had, but I am very happy for it.”
“I honestly worked really hard. I shot a lot of arrows. I set up my equipment as good as I could. I prepared really well for this tournament. It just feels good to know that that paid off. If I win, great, I just want to enjoy. And I did both of those things, so I’m happy.”
The barebow men’s final saw two experienced competitors, Giuseppe Seimandi and multiple champion Erik Jonsson, face off before Jonsson faded late to hand Seimandi the title.
Seimandi, who won a European 3D title as a compound archer in 2018, claimed his first major title as a barebow archer after more than a decade competing at the top level.
Italy’s Eleonora Strobbe, another experienced competitor, won her second world field title in barebow women’s, 16 years after her first in 2010.
“I had a two- or three-year break from international events but otherwise I shoot because I like it,” said Strobbe. “It’s like my life. I have a family, I work, but it is my hobby, my passion and I still love it.”
“I don’t know why I love field archery. In field you don’t know what you will find.”
The competition closes with the team finals on Sunday.
