New Delhi, Oct 11 (NationPress) Brady Ellison, a five-time Olympic medallist currently competing in the Archery Premier League (APL), the world's inaugural professional archery league, expressed admiration for the Indian archers, noting their fierce competition against international players while highlighting the sport's evolution within the nation.

Representing the Chola Chiefs in this tournament, Ellison was impressed by India's achievement in successfully organizing the APL, remarking that the tournament's structure presents a rigorous challenge for archers globally.

"It's remarkable what they have accomplished. Archery has largely remained consistent over the years, and we are all used to the formats we compete in. As a Premier League, recognized as the finest league worldwide, they have created a format that poses challenges for all archers internationally," Ellison shared with IANS.

"Holding the number one world ranking multiple times and possessing five Olympic medals, I can confidently say this is the most demanding tournament I have entered. Witnessing this level of competition is fantastic, and I believe the league has achieved great things. Few expected it to have such an impact.

"The primary objective was to unite elite international competitors and foster improvement in India for medal success. While we acknowledge this goal, the league encompasses so much more. The timing and difficulty of the format suggest that when it truly takes off, it will become something everyone aspires to join.

"It will motivate children across the globe, not just in India, to dream of receiving an invitation to this league during their careers. Being invited to the APL might become as significant as making an Olympic team. It's a phenomenal achievement they have realized," he added.

Ellison highlighted that the Indian archers are continually advancing and establishing themselves as formidable contenders against international athletes. The 37-year-old acknowledged the strength of India’s compound team and the rising prowess of the recurve squad.

"Indian archers are competing effectively with their international counterparts, and their performance metrics are consistently improving, indicating that India is on the verge of securing an Olympic medal. The shooters in India are exceptionally strong, particularly in the compound category, ranking among the world's elite. Furthermore, the recurve team includes individuals reaching the World Cup finals and others ranked in the top 10 globally, showcasing their potential. Navigating this competitive landscape is challenging, yet Indian archers have likely surpassed their international rivals," he concluded.

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