World Cup to take its bow in Capital

THOUSANDS are expected to turn out this weekend when Edinburgh becomes the first UK city to host the Archery World Cup Final.

Organisers of the event, which is being held in East Princes Street Gardens, hope that a worldwide TV audience will tune in for the most prestigious event in the sport's calendar.

The culmination of four World Cup qualifying events, the event will see the 32 best archers in the world bring their skills to the Capital ahead of the Commonwealth Games in Delhi next month.

Peter Jones of Archery GB, the sport's national governing body, said: "Hosting the World Cup Final is extremely prestigious.

"First of all, there is great interest worldwide in hosting it, because it's a major international sporting event with a global reach.

"It is a massive vote of confidence that FITA (International Archery Federation] had faith not just in us, but in Edinburgh, which provides a spectacular setting for the event.

"Visitors over the weekend will see archers of the very highest quality, providing high sporting drama as they chase a major international prize.

"Spectators can not only watch the top performers, but have a go themselves."

He added: "Edinburgh is a great venue, and all of us are looking forward to being at the event, enjoying a beautiful city, and hopefully cheering British archers to glory."

The event will be free for spectators, with a small charge for seating in the grandstand. There will also be a series of "come and try" sessions organised by Archery Great Britain and Scottish Archery.

The International Archery Federation has stressed that only "extraordinary cities with extraordinary venues" are selected to host the competition, with previous hosts including Lausanne in Switzerland.

Councillor Steve Cardownie, the city's festivals and events champion, said: "It's going to be quite something to see East Princes Street Gardens transformed into an archery arena for this major sporting event and I'm sure the Archery World Cup will draw thousands of spectators, as well as being watched by many millions of viewers across the globe.

"Scotland's capital has forged a reputation as a premier destination for top-level international events. Edinburgh's packed events calendar offers something for everyone, and its rich history, breathtaking beauty and excellent quality of life ensure that visitors return to the city again and again."