We first heard of the Armless Archer, Matt Stutzman, years ago when he initially came on the scene in the tournament archery world. His archery success has been incredibly inspirational to many shooters around the world.
Not only has he survived in the tournament archery community, but has thrived among some of the best shooters in the country. In fact, the 2024 year just might have been the best year of his archery career.
According to a recent release, the Paralympic champion has been named Archer of the Year and Para Men’s Archer of the Year by World Archery.
In claiming compound open gold in Paris, 42-year-old Stutzman became the first armless archer to do so, cementing his legacy not only within the Paralympic movement but within world archery also.
“When I first picked up a bow, I had no idea the heights it would take me,” Stutzman said. “Archery has changed my life in too many ways to count and I am beyond honored to receive this award. Go Team USA!”
Within moments of defeating Ai Xinliang (CHN) for the gold medal, Stutzman was already contemplating the impact of not only his Paris performance but of his career and the path it carved out for others to follow.
“Do you know how many armless archers are here shooting and feeling what I felt when I first started shooting? It’s not about winning the medals, it’s about the fact that they’re competing against people, they’re winning.”
“These armless archers are feeling what I felt a long time ago. They’re feeling the joy and the excitement and the passion of being able to compete on the world’s greatest stage and win, against people with arms.”
Watching Stutzman in action is always an encouraging experience. It tends to leave most shooters without an excuse for the failure to push the limits and strive for success.
A big congrats to the Armless Archer on his recent success!
