ShaTranj and Mounted Archery in South Africa

Traditionally a horse archer was a cavalryman armed with a bow, able to shoot from horseback while riding. Eurasian nomads like the Scythians, Mongols and the Huns (to name only a few) developed these techniques into a fine art – the Mongols held power over the largest land area in human history – and their Mounted Archery techniques contributed no small part to this.

Modern Mounted Archery is governed worldwide by the International Horseback Archery Alliance (IHAA). The national body is called the Mounted Archery Association of South Africa (MAASA). The first club that came into existence was Mounted Archery Pretoria (MAP) to whom ShaTranj plays host. Various clubs are now available in most of the provinces in South Africa.

The IHAA accepts various rules and variations on the tracks being used, more info can be gathered from their website.

The Africa Grand Tournament 2015 was the first of its kind to be held on the continent of Africa and took place at ShaTranj on 7 March 2015.

The 2nd Africa Grand Tournament was held in December 2016 and showed tremendous growth from the previous year. Shatran again played host for the first day and Koinos Estate for the second day.

ShaTranj Mounted Archery / Stables Offers the following to anyone interested in Mounted Archery or just horse riding:

1. Riding Lessons (beginners to advanced)
2. Archery Lessons (Traditional shooting / Mounted Archery)
3. Venue for Private parties and events (Warriors / Bush Theme)
4. Host Mounted Archery (national & international competitions)
5. Pony / Warrior Camps for children
6. Outrides (Breakfast rides and more)
7. SANESA qualifier training and competitions held at ShaTranj stables

Please feel free to contact us / visit us and join this fanstastic group of young warriors!