Shoot: S.C.A.M. Double York/Hereford 2026
Type: Target – Longbow 2-way Western, American, York, Hereford/Bristol I, National
Venue: Forest of Bere Bowmen, Blendworth Lane, Horndean, Waterlooville. PO8 0DG.
Date: 07.05.26 – 10.05.26.
Distance from Bowmen of Lytchett: Approx. 1 hour 28 mins
Participants: Mike H. (Recurve 50+), Geoff and Mike Y. (Longbow)
Medals:
There is no denying the somewhat unfortunate acronym, but the Southern Counties Archery Meeting (S.C.A.M.) remains a highly worthwhile event for anyone who has caught the competition bug. Although Dorset and Wiltshire fall outside the Southern Counties Archery Society (SCAS), visitor medals are awarded—attractive ones, no less—and the shoot also holds record status. This means that scores shot on both Saturday and Sunday contribute to national rankings.
The event spans four days, beginning with Longbow Day on Thursday, followed by an American round on Friday, and culminating in the SCAS Double York/Hereford Championships over the weekend. National rounds are also available on both Saturday and Sunday.
The venue rotates annually but is currently hosted by Forest of Bere Bowmen, a relaxed and welcoming club that fully deserves the support it receives. Their ground is set in a picturesque location, surrounded by trees that typically provide excellent shelter from the elements. Saturday proved unexpectedly warm, accompanied by a stiff breeze. However, ample shade was available beneath the trees behind the rather “cosy” tent line—early arrival is advisable for those wishing to secure a good pitching spot.
Sunday’s conditions were less favourable, bringing persistent rain and an even stronger breeze. Despite this, spirits remained high. Archers, fortified by bacon rolls, burgers, and complimentary tea and coffee, pressed on to produce some impressive performances. The provision of additional shelter—both from the tree cover and large canopy umbrellas positioned over picnic benches—helped keep competitors, equipment, and scoresheets protected from the elements.
Geoff and Mike Y both competed over the weekend, with Geoff securing second place in the Visitors Longbow category and taking home a silver medal. Mike H delivered an outstanding performance, shooting on Friday as well as over the weekend. He claimed first place in the Visitors Recurve 50+ category on both days and was crowned the overall winner. His exceptional shooting earned him a Master Bowman (MB) score, a personal best (PB), and an impressive six-gold end. Congratulations to Mike on a superb achievement.