Iona Bartosz: Leading Zimbabwe archery to new heights

IONA Bartosz, born on 14 March 1973, is married to Victor Bartosz and serves as the president of the Zimbabwe Archery Association. She attended Ruwa Primary, Admiral Tait, and Speciss College for her secondary and high school education.

Bartosz’s interest in archery began in 1997, and by 2007, she had started coaching. Her passion for archery was sparked during her time as a professional safari and canoe guide, where it initially began as a hobby. Her family shares a love for outdoor activities.

In archery, the primary focus is on drawing the bow and releasing an arrow to hit a target. Those familiar with firearms will notice some similarities between archery and firearm safety. Archery is an inclusive sport with no age limit or gender discrimination, making it enjoyable for everyone.

“Archery is the second safest sport next to table tennis, strict safety measures are adhered to at all times,” she said.
Bartosz said she loves archery because it allows her to interact with new athletes, administrators, and the thrill of traveling to compete and coach.

“Obviously there are challenges along the way, sourcing equipment, safe locations to practice keeping up with administration,” she said.
Bartosz started at Sable Archery Club in Hillside, Harare.

“After some time Sable Archery joined Borrowdale Bowmen club. I am now with Harare Archery Club based at Courtney Selous School in Greendale, Harare,” she said.

In 2000, her talent truly shone when she claimed victory in the prestigious Unlimited Woman’s Compound competition held in Zambia, marking her first major award.

“More recently in November 2023 I won Individual Silver Medal at the 2023 Continental Championships in Tunisia Compound Women, and a gold medal in the mixed team event with Jesse Steele,” said Bartosz.

Her dedication to archery earned her a bronze medal at the Southern Regional Championships in the Masters Women Compound held in Johannesburg, South Africa, in March 2024.

“I am currently President of the Zimbabwe Archery Association, am on the Board of World Archery Africa and also media manager for Africa,” she said.

Bartosz encourages women to take up archery, touting its benefits for physical fitness and mental well-being.
“Archery has many benefits both physically and emotionally, it teaches hand and eye coordination, physical development, fitness, strength, stamina, breath control and full body control.

“I came into the sport thinking just to give it a try, it’s had me hooked from 1998 and has taught me so many life skills, patience, understanding and that each time you are on the range each arrow sets one up for new opportunities and I have met some amazing people in the sport who are so supportive and encouraging,” she said.

Bartosz champions an active and healthy lifestyle through sports, and strongly advocates against drug and substance abuse.

“I like to be in control of my future and to help others find the benefits of a healthy sporting activity for self-growth. All Zimbabwe Archery Association (ZAA) administration, coaches, judges and athletes participating in national events or going on tours are all World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) certified and take refresher courses every two years,” she said.

Archery offers a unique blend of physical and mental benefits for archers. It promotes relaxation and calmness, allowing you to focus on the present moment and achieve a sense of inner peace. Learning to analyse each shot and calmly correct mistakes fosters patience and perseverance — valuable skills that translate into all aspects of life.

The sport caters to all levels, from beginner-friendly grassroots programs to the exhilarating world championships and the pinnacle of athletic achievement — the Olympics.

Bartosz highlights another advantage — the strong social connections formed within the archery community. Mixing and mingling with fellow archers from around the world fosters friendships and a supportive network that transcends geographic boundaries.

“As athletes we get to meet new people, initially it is about one’s own development but progresses in to the team accomplishment and development of the sport as a whole. Going into communities, competing in tournaments thus building great friendships and a great platform for socialising,” she said.