Hinchco Memorial Shoot

The Hinchco Memorial shoot is held in memory of Jim Hinchco.

Jim, a master bow maker, engineer and inventor, shaped the development of archery from soon after the war years until his untimely death on 2 September 1978.

His interest in archery started after the war when ammunition was very scarce, he bought a bow from America which quickly broke. So being the innovator he was, he decided he could do better and started to make his own bows. This innovation grew and developed into a full time profession. Over the years he designed and built many new bow styles including the ventilated "triumph riser", the first take down recurves and one particularly interesting bow that shot an arrow through a gap in a split riser (true centre flight).

His bows won many national and international titles. He was known as the "Fox" because his knowledge of arrow flight, curve of the limbs and draw weight allowed him to determine distance simply by watching the shooters form.

Jim assisted the fledgling club with sponsorship and advice but just as important was the inspiration he provided through his status as "The Master" in getting the club started. Unsurprisingly he was asked to open the club at its new site in Red Hills Road with Jim shooting the first arrow, made by his son in law, Jerry Jessen. Jim was awarded the first honorary membership at the club for his support and inspiration.