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Gold in South Africa – Marvin Wicki Becomes World Champion with His Shrew Bow

At the IFAA World Bowhunter Championships (WBHC 2025) in South Africa, Swiss archer Marvin Wicki delivered a truly outstanding performance: With his trusted Shrew Bow, he claimed the gold medal in the Traditional Recurve Young Adult category.

We at Shrew Bows extend our warmest congratulations to Marvin for this incredible achievement – and our sincere thanks for his loyalty to our legendary brand. Marvin has once again proven that true commitment, hard training, and top-quality gear are the perfect formula for success.

His Shrew was by his side in every challenge and was even jokingly nicknamed the "little diva" by fellow competitors in South Africa – a playful nod to its unmatched performance.

A Personal Report by Marvin Wicki

My name is Marvin Wicki, I’m 19 years old, from beautiful Switzerland, and currently training to become an automotive mechatronics technician. I've been in archery for about 4 years – and I proudly shoot a Shrew Bow.

Since the EBHC 2024, Marvin had been thinking about participating in the next year's World Championship in South Africa. By late summer 2024, it was clear: He would compete in the WBHC 2025!

Thanks to his supportive family, sponsors, and his archery club Unicorn Archers Gachnang, Marvin began his preparations across all areas. In April 2025, his adventure finally took off – to his first ever World Championship.

Competing, Connecting, and Creating Memories

"From the moment I stepped on South African soil, I knew this experience would be special."

Breathtaking landscapes, welcoming people, and a perfectly organized tournament – WBHC 2025 was a week full of challenges and unforgettable moments. The courses were both beautiful and demanding. While many archers initially missed having backstops in the rocky terrain, every successful hit felt like a celebration.

The competition remained tight until the very end. Nothing was decided, everything was on the line – an intense thrill that defined the championship spirit.

"My Shrew, which many fellow archers fondly called the 'little diva', has guided me through countless tournaments. And this one was no different."

Beyond Victory: A Life-Changing Chapter

Neue Freundschaften, internationale Begegnungen und der spürbare Zusammenhalt unter Bogenschützinnen und -schützen weltweit prägten Marvins Reise. Selbst im Wettkampf half man sich gegenseitig – ein Ausdruck der besonderen Kultur im traditionellen Bogensport.

Winning the World Championship in the Traditional Recurve Young Adult class was of course the ultimate highlight. But what truly touched Marvin were the people he met and the friendships he built with archers from all over the world.

Even as competitors, we supported each other. That’s what makes traditional archery so unique – the community, the spirit, and the shared passion.

After the tournament, Marvin spent a few days exploring Pilanesberg National Park with his parents – the perfect way to round off an unforgettable journey.

On May 9th, I returned to Switzerland with a heart full of memories, a suitcase full of stories, and a gold medal that represents all the effort, training, and love for this sport.

Thank You, Marvin!

Gold for Marvin Wicki.
Gold for Switzerland.
Gold for Shrew Bows.

We at Shrew Bows are proud that our bows not only shine at a national level, but also perform on the world stage – helping archers turn their personal dreams into reality.

Thank you, Marvin, for taking us on this incredible journey. We’re excited for what the future holds – and we’ll be right there with you for your next adventures with your Shrew by your side.

Henry Bodnik Instinctive Archery

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