Ruben Vanhollebeke Shatters World Record at the Gwangju 2025 World Archery Para Championships
Belgium’s own Ruben Vanhollebeke has made headlines at the Gwangju 2025 World Archery Para Championships by breaking his own visually impaired world record—an impressive achievement that showcases his extraordinary talent and dedication. During the qualifying rounds, Vanhollebeke scored a staggering 507 points, surpassing his previous record by seven points.
Scoring Breakdown
Vanhollebeke’s outstanding performance included a front half of 241 followed by a back half of 266. His consistent scoring not only placed him at the top of the nine competitor field but also set the stage for what could be another remarkable championship for the athlete.
Feeling the Rhythm
Reflecting on his exceptional day, Vanhollebeke shared, “This morning we left with a super good feeling. Everything went the way it should. I got more and more into my rhythm.” His words highlighted the importance of not just skill, but also mental readiness and the role of equipment and support. “Good rhythm, good equipment, a good coach – and everything comes together perfectly. As long as you keep believing in yourself!”—a philosophy that carries weight beyond just the sport.
Pursuing a Third World Title
As Vanhollebeke seeks to add a third world title to his accolades in the VI1 category, he is no stranger to championship pressure. He previously claimed victories at the World Archery Para Championships in ‘s-Hertogenbosch in 2019 and Dubai in 2022. His journey saw him finishing third in Pilsen earlier this year, fueling his determination for success in Gwangju. All eyes are now on his upcoming match against Greece’s Christos Misos, a seasoned competitor and multiple silver medalist eager for his first major title.
The Emotions of Competition
“Every final brings a different feeling, a different competition,” Vanhollebeke noted, reflecting on the psychological component of the sport. His commitment to bringing home the gold emphasizes not only personal ambition but also the pride of representing his country. Furthermore, he expressed enthusiasm for the attention archery is garnering, stating, “It is fantastic for our discipline of archery to receive so much publicity.”
The Visually Impaired Categories: VI1 and VI2/3
In the visually impaired categories, athletes are classified based on the severity of their impairment. Vanhollebeke competes in the VI1 category, while the VI2/3 category features partially sighted athletes who wear blindfolds. Both categories allow participants to shoot at a distance of 30 meters using tactile sights that guide their aiming through touch. They are also permitted to have assistants for loading arrows and scoring, which highlights the collaboration required in this unique and challenging format.
Notable Performances in Other Categories
In another thrilling highlight from the championships, Great Britain’s Nicholas Thomas topped the VI2/3 category with a score of 592, setting up an exciting final against Belgian teammate Kathleen Meurrens, who secured the second seed.
Gender and Competitive Dynamics
It’s worth noting that in visually impaired archery, men and women compete together, promoting a spirit of inclusivity that is sometimes lacking in other sports. However, despite the growing popularity and level of competition, visually impaired archery is yet to be included in the Paralympic Games, leaving advocates and participants alike hoping for future recognition on this prestigious stage.
As the championships unfold, the spotlight remains firmly on athletes like Ruben Vanhollebeke, whose dedication to the sport and remarkable skill is capturing the hearts and minds of sports fans worldwide.
