How long do para archers have to shoot?
I · Intermediate · Competition · 2 of 4At para world ranking events archers get 40 seconds an arrow in qualification and simultaneous matches, 30 in alternating individual matches and 20 in team matches. Each archer has at least 1.25 m on the line and may stay there. No extra time is given for equipment failure or medical problems; the archer may leave and return if time allows.
How it works
- Qualification: 40 seconds an arrow.
- Alternate individual: 30 seconds an arrow.
- Teams: 20 seconds an arrow.
- Space: at least 1.25 m per archer.
- Staying on the line: allowed for para athletes.
- Stance: standing without support unless classified otherwise.
- Equipment failure: no extra time.
- Teams: teammates may shoot meanwhile.
The glossary has the shooting time (para archery), the shooting on the line, the equipment failure and medical issues, the wheelchair (para archery), the assistant and the doubles and mixed team (para archery).
Tricky cases
A bowstring breaks. Extra time?
No, at para events.
Can an archer sit if not classified to?
No. They shoot standing without support unless allowed.
Does a shoot-off use the same time?
Yes, as in the match.
Can the assistant stand behind the line?
Yes, acting as coach; no other coach is allowed there.
Why the rule exists
Time limits keep matches moving and fair. Letting athletes stay on the line spares those who cannot easily move.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification | 40 seconds | 37.2.1.1 |
| Alternate individual | 30 seconds | 37.2.1.1 |
| Teams | 20 seconds | 37.2.1.1 |
From the rule book
World Archery, Rulebook, Book 5 Para Archery (13 March 2026), articles 33.3, 33.4, 36.4, 37.2 and 37.4.1, and Appendix 2 item 7. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Archery Rulebook Book 5, Para Archery.