NEW YORK — Competing at its first in-person competition this season, the Columbia archery team will travel to Richmond, Virginia, this weekend for the 2021 National Collegiate Target Championships, May 20-23 at Dorey Park.
 
The event falls within spring competition rules established by the Ivy League's Council of Presidents, which were announced on February 18. Due to loosened restrictions from local, state and CDC guidelines, the team was approved to travel outside of the originally stated 40-mile radius. All players have continued to undergo COVID-19 testing two times per week. During competition, athletes will compete socially distanced from other competitors and coaches. The five athletes are also abiding by state and local government-mandated quarantine rules upon arriving in New York.
 
Additionally, the Lions also received permission from Columbia University to participate.
 
"While I'm always inspired by my teams, this year is unique," said head coach Derek Davis. "After 13 months of COVID dictating what we can't do, we're finally able to take a step toward normal. There are number of legitimate reasons why many can't attend this year, so I'm proud and grateful that the five who have committed will give us a chance to represent. I can't tell you how excited we all are."
 
Sophomore Olivia Cho, sophomore Nidhi Kanchumarthi and junior Meghan Collins will represent the Lions on the recurve side, while sophomore Sachiko Keane and first-year Jessica Kim will take on the individual compound competition.
 
Live scoring for the event can be found at BetweenEnds.com.
 
The event will also serve as the qualifier for the 2021 World University Games in Chengdu, capital of the Sichuan Province of China. The top two performers from the compound and recurve qualifying rounds will earn a spot on the Team USA roster.
 
Thursday, May 20
12 p.m. – Official Practice
4:15 p.m. – Opening Ceremonies
 
Friday, May 21
8 a.m. – Qualification Round 1
2 p.m. – Individual Elimination Rounds
 
Saturday, May 22
8 a.m. – Individual Elimination Rounds
1 p.m. – Official Team Round
 
Sunday, May 19
1 p.m. – Finals