Sultan ends three-year individual title dry spell

“I’ve never won an individual world title before… and it’s been two or three years since I’ve won a major tournament individually,” said Sergio PAGNI. “I’m happy that wait is over – and I’ve got to dedicate this victory to my wife, Pia LIONETTI.”

“I wanted her with me during the match today, but she was too emotional because… well… it’s a world championships final! So Marcella came with me. We’re used to each other, shooting the mixed team together all the time. I trust her, and I know when she’s behind me the arrows go in the 10 ring!”

And they nearly all did. The Sultan of Smooth shot just three shafts out of the middle through five sets, and Reo WILDE’s very last arrow landing in the nine sealed it. Victory for the Italian.

Stephan HANSEN beat Jesse BROADWATER to bronze. “I was nervous, because he’s such a good indoor archer,” the young Dane, now referred to by commentators as ‘The Prince’ explained. “I was shaking in the shoot-off.”

HANSEN’s medal cabinet is big and growing: world outdoor team champion, world junior champion and now bronze at Nimes. “Martin DAMSBO, who was with me today, is my coach…” ah! That explains it.

Mentored by a World Cup Final winner, anybody jealous?

 

The World Archery Indoor Championships are underway in Nimes, France until 2 March 2014. Follow full results and World Archery’s coverage on Facebook and Twitter.