A goldsmith from Somerset West has gone from hermit to national champion in a remarkable 22-month journey, crediting a divine calling for his newfound talent in archery.
Hugo Rossouw started archery in November 2023 as a way to combat depression and social isolation. After struggling to find a hobby that resonated with him, he felt a sudden, strong pull toward archery.
“I just had the thought of archery, I believe the Holy Spirit was guiding me,” the 42-year-old said.
Rossouw took his first lesson at the Helderberg Target Archery Club. Hooked after just a few shots, he immediately purchased a bow from Gumtree against the club’s advice.
His natural talent, however, was undeniable. Within a month of joining the club he placed second in a club competition. The next month he won, a position he has held every month since.
Club chairperson Rhys McWilliams recalled Rossouw’s rapid rise: “He only took two lessons before he bought a bow. We have supported him as much as we can… his attitude towards the sport is terrific. It’s a mental sport and he copes very well, and constantly improves.”
Rossouw’s success quickly transcended local club competitions. In June last year, he won the national indoor championships, and later that year, he broke a South African indoor record in his first indoor competition.
He continued to set and break his own records, culminating in a new South African outdoor record in January this year. His crowning achievement came in March at the 75th national championships in Johannesburg, where he won a gold medal in the barebow men’s category.
“It is strange and humbling to be so new to the sport, yet be so good,” Rossouw said. “It’s not me; it’s a talent given by God. I’m very blessed and I believe it’s God’s plan for me.”
Rossouw is preparing for the biggest challenge of his career: the African Archery Championships in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, at the end of November. The event will not only be his first international competition, but will also allow him to wear the Protea colours.
To prepare, he practices shooting more than 350 arrows a weekend at a target 50 m away.
The trip is self-funded and Rossouw is appealing to the community for assistance to help him raise the funds. “I’m very humbled,” he said. “I know that this is just a blessing, I can’t take credit. I want to experience the international level of competition.”
McWilliams is confident in Rossouw’s abilities. “He’s definitely a top performer at the club. He’ll easily win at the African champs… He should do well.”
For Rossouw, archery is more than just a sport; it’s a life lesson. “Archery is amazing, it teaches focus and to stay calm,” he reflected. “If you want to improve, don’t shoot against other people, shoot against yourself. If you have a bad arrow, forget about that arrow. Learn from it, don’t dwell on it and concentrate on the next arrow… So many things in archery apply to life.”
๏ฎTo support Rossouw’s trip to Ivory Coast, call him on 082 572 9211.
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