A record delegation from the Arc Club of Nîmes is taking part in the second round of the World Cup from May 5 to 10 in China.
From May 5 to 10, Shanghai hosts the second stage of the outdoor archery World Cup. In the Chinese city, the competition promises to be particularly intense, with the presence of the world elite, especially from Asia, traditionally dominant in the discipline. Within the French team, one delegation is drawing attention: five archers from Nîmes have been selected, a record for the Arc Club of Nîmes.
A Nîmes presence unprecedented in the French team
Never before has the Gard club been represented at this level of competition. This selection illustrates both the local dynamic and the quality of the Nîmes training, which has become a recognized breeding ground for French archery over the years.
In the men’s recurve division, the vice Olympic champion trio from Paris is back on the shooting line. Baptiste Addis and Jean-Charles Valladont — the latter returning to the French team after the birth of his daughter — are accompanied by Thomas Chirault, a member of the Clermont-Ferrand club. An experienced core, accustomed to major events.
Between experience and exposure to the highest level
On the other hand, three other archers from Nîmes continue their learning of the international circuit. Alexis Renaudineau is competing in his second competition at this level. After a first experience in Mexico, marked by the discovery of senior high-level, he approaches this stage with more references.
Among the women, Mila Fremery Delestan will compete in the recurve division. She stood out from her first appearance on the circuit in April, in Mexico, securing a promising sixth place. In Shanghai, the goal is to confirm and gain experience.
In the compound division, Anaëlle Florent will try to bounce back after a more challenging start in the Mexican round. She will seek to fully express her potential against tough competition.
The support of the veterans to guide the newcomers
If Baptiste Addis and Jean-Charles Valladont are now accustomed to major international competitions, their fellow archers from Nîmes are still in the discovery phase. In this demanding context, the experience of the two veterans could play a key role, both technically and mentally.
