Since 2014, Munroe Road Archery Club (MRAC) has been more than just a training ground; it is a sanctuary where young minds are sharpened alongside their arrows.
Founded by National Archers Dunbar and Nazimine Roopnarine, MRAC uses archery as a discipline to equip youth with vital life skills. The sport naturally lengthens a child’s attention span as they hold a bow steady, keeping their gaze locked on the target. This intense focus and ability to maintain composure under pressure seamlessly translate into the classroom, particularly during exams, helping them develop the invaluable skill of balancing their studies with training.
The club’s transformative power is vividly seen in ten-year-old Avin Persad. A Standard 4 student at Jordan Hill Presbyterian School, Avin only began in January 2025 but has already made national headlines. He recently won silver in the Under-12 Compound category at the National Outdoor Championships, setting a national record by scoring 112 in his elimination match. For Avin, the sport is pure joy. “I like the thrill of the competitions and even feel accomplished as I shoot each arrow,” he shared, noting that he particularly loves MRAC because he enjoys “shooting at night.”
Fellow ten-year-old Nathan Davis, who will enter Standard 5 at Curepe Presbyterian Primary School in September, also started his archery journey in January 2025. Competing in the Under-12 recurve category at the National Championships, Nathan approaches the sport with a profound sense of calm.
“It is a relaxing sport and a fun hobby that calms my mind while getting me excited before every shot,” Nathan explained. “I find archery an interesting skill to learn and know because it’s an ancient craft that has endured for many years and is still used today. When I am on the line, I do my best to clear my mind, focus, and hit the middle of the target.”
Beyond the medals, it is the nurturing culture at MRAC that truly inspires. “I appreciate the assistance from the coaches and other archers,” Nathan noted. “They take a step-by-step approach in helping you learn and grow. Everyone helps to encourage and inspire me when I’m on the line. Even when things don’t go the way I hope, they are still there supporting, every step of the way.”
Through this dedicated community, MRAC is ensuring its young archers hit the bullseye in both sports and life.
Mary Cuffy is an educator and local children's author of the Ladybug series. Cuffy believes the best investment we can make in children is in the early years.
Email mary.cuffy@yahoo.com . IG:marycuffy . FB: mary cuffy/Lola and the Dancing Ladybug
