Sharp-shooting Illaria Knibb is heading for the European Indoor Archery Championships – and has described the achievement of representing Great Britain as a dream come true.
The 23-year-old, from Kettering, took up barebow archery – a traditional discipline with no stabilisers or sight aids – while studying at university in 2020.
Having previously enjoyed trying the sport on holiday, her upward trajectory has seen her become UK Indoor National Champion and manager of the Bedfordshire county team. Now she is set to compete against Europe’s elite in Bulgaria in February.
Illaria, a full-time apprentice with Network Rail, said: “It’s an incredible honour to be selected. Stepping onto the international stage in a GB shirt represents not just my hard work but the encouragement, mentorship and opportunities from my club, coaches, workplace and community.
“Balancing a full‑time engineering apprenticeship with high‑performance training has pushed me in every possible way. This is more than a sporting achievement for me – it’s a testament to perseverance, discipline, and the power of believing in a goal even when the path isn’t easy.”
What started as a hobby quickly became a source of focus and resilience during a challenging period at university.
Illaria said: “I was struggling with depression but archery gave me purpose. It gave me something to hold on to when everything else felt unsteady. Standing on the shooting line – in silence, with nothing but my breath, my bow, and the target in front of me – gave me a sense of calm I couldn’t find anywhere else.”
After growing up attending steam train conventions with her grandad, Illaria became involved in advocacy work for women in science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) while at university, which combined to lead her onto Network Rail’s apprenticeship scheme.
In her day job, Illaria continues to make great progress on her NVQs (national vocational qualifications) and assessments, with the hope of finishing the apprenticeship early to step into a full-time position as a technical officer.
Illaria added: “Balancing high‑performance training for archery with a full‑time engineering apprenticeship pushes me every day. It’s taught me discipline, focus and resilience. Stepping onto the international stage in a GB shirt is a dream come true, and I’m grateful to my coaches, club, colleagues and family for believing in me.”
A GoFundMe page has been set up for anyone wishing to support Illaria with travel, accommodation and other costs of competing. Click here to help.
Image credit: Network Rail
