Illaria Knibb Claims Triple European Medal Haul in a Breakthrough Season

Bedfordshire’s Illaria Knibb has delivered one of the most impressive seasons ever seen from a British barebow archer, culminating in a three‑medal performance at the 2026 European Indoor Championships. Her achievements – silver in the Barebow Women’s Team, bronze in the Mixed Team, and bronze individually – mark a defining moment in her career and a major milestone for British barebow on the international stage. ???? Silver – Barebow Women Team Great Britain: Illaria Knibb, Victoria Semple, Anastasia Wilson???? Bronze – Barebow Mixed Team Great Britain: Illaria Knibb + William Anderson???? Bronze – Barebow Women Individual Her first individual European medalThis triple‑medal haul places her among the most successful British barebow athletes ever to compete at a European indoor championship. A Season Defined by Major International and National SuccessIllaria’s European achievements are the highlight of a season already packed with standout results. 2nd Place at the JVD Open, NetherlandsEarlier in the season, Illaria delivered a superb performance at the prestigious JVD Open, finishing 2nd against a deep international field. The event is widely regarded as one of Europe’s strongest indoor tournaments, and her podium finish there signalled the form she would carry into the European Championships. UK Indoor ChampionIllaria also claimed the title of UK Indoor Champion, securing her position as the top women’s barebow archer in the country. Her victory showcased the consistency and technical refinement that have defined her season. Home Nations Indoor Gold for EnglandAdding to her achievements, Illaria helped lead England’s Women’s Barebow Team to gold at the Home Nations Indoor. Her contribution was instrumental in securing the title, reinforcing her reputation as a reliable and high‑performing team archer. A Breakthrough European CampaignAt the European Indoor Championships, Illaria delivered a composed and disciplined qualification round, progressing confidently into matchplay. Her run through the elimination stages earned her a well‑deserved individual bronze, demonstrating her ability to perform under intense pressure against Europe’s strongest barebow athletes.Her performances in both the women’s team and mixed team events were equally impressive, helping Great Britain secure silver and bronze respectively – a significant achievement in a discipline dominated by powerhouse nations such as Italy. Bedfordshire are proud to have been able to support Illaria in her mission to attend the European Indoor Championships and are pleased for her successes in Bulgaria.