EVERY MONTH, YOUNG MARY PETERS TRUST ATHLETES SPELL OUT HOW THE CHARITY IS AIDING THE PURSUIT OF THEIR SPORTING DREAMS
Archery has been a huge part of Banbridge girl Kathryn Morton’s life for almost a decade. The Mary Peters Trust athlete reflects on the past, outlines her sporting goals for the future and highlights the part played by Mary and her Trust
KATHRYN’S love of barebow archery all began at Abercorn Primary School in Banbridge when she was part of a stage performance of Robin Hood.
“As an 11-year-old it just seemed so cool and I wanted to find out more,” she explains.
In September 2015 she joined her local archery club, Ballyvally, located between Banbridge and Loughbrickland. It’s one of the largest in Ireland and was founded many years ago by renowned archer Frank Mulligan MBE.
“His son and daughter (also past Mary Peters Trust funded athletes) have carried on the family tradition, and both are champions in the sport. I’m very lucky to be part of such a highly respected and active club,” Kathryn says.
“To me archery is not just a sport, it’s a community. I’ve met friends from all over the world, and I love how inclusive it is. All ages and abilities come together to compete and enjoy the sport. I’ve had the opportunity to travel across Ireland, the UK, and internationally. It’s a huge part of my life.”
After taking her A-Levels at Banbridge Academy, Kathryn went on to Ulster University and has completed her second year of a physiotherapy degree. She combines academia with coaching up and coming competitors, serves as chairperson of Ulster University Magee’s Archery Club and is on the committee at Ballyvally Archers where she is an active member, training indoors at Banbridge and outdoors in Loughbrickland Estate.
“Taking on these leadership roles have helped me grow in confidence and develop essential skills in communication, leadership and organisation,” Kathryn asserts.
Currently Kathryn is competing for both Ulster University and her home club, Ballyvally Archers. On the international side, the 2025 selection process for GB is still underway, but she is hoping to be part of this September’s European 3D Championships in Serbia.
“It’s always a huge honour to represent Great Britain, and I’d love to get the opportunity again this year,” she adds. “It would be another amazing step in my sporting journey. Beyond that, I want to continue developing my skills in both 3D and Field Archery, improving consistency under pressure and gaining more international experience.
“Ultimately, my dream is to win a medal at the World Games. It’s a major multi-sport event organised every four years. It’s like the Olympics, but for sports not included in the Olympic Games, and features barebow archery in the form of Field Archery.
“To qualify, I need to finish in one of the top positions at the World Field Championships and then be selected by my national governing body, so it’s incredibly competitive. Just getting there would be a huge achievement, and medalling would be the ultimate highlight of my career.”
The Mary Peters Trust has supported Kathryn over several years and highlighting its impact Kathryn says: “It’s meant the world to me. It’s not just the financial help; it’s a sign that someone believes in you and your potential.
“With Trust support, I’ve been able to attend four European Championships and two World Championships to date. It’s been invaluable for my development as an archer and has opened the door to meeting so many other talented young athletes across Northern Ireland, which has been hugely inspiring.
“Lady Mary Peters is a massive inspiration – not just as a successful athlete, but as someone who has dedicated so much of her life to supporting the next generation. She’s proof that sport can have a lasting impact beyond the competition field.
“Promoting women in sport and providing opportunities through the Trust has been transformative for so many of us. I’ve been lucky enough to meet Mary several times at events, and she always takes the time to genuinely connect with each athlete. Her interest and encouragement mean a lot.”
Kathryn and Lady Mary
As a Trust athlete, Kathryn helps out at various MPT events and in March was part of the team at a Belfast City Hall event launching the Trust’s 50th birthday.
“Giving back to the Mary Peters Trust has been a really rewarding experience,” she insists.
“After all the support they’ve given me, it feels great to help out where I can. It’s also enjoyable to see events from behind the scenes and to be part of such a positive and inspiring team environment. I love being involved and helping the Trust continue its amazing work.
“It’s incredible that the Mary Peters Trust has been supporting athletes in Northern Ireland for 50 years. The impact they’ve had is truly remarkable.
“Mary herself is such a key figure in Northern Ireland sport, and thanks to the Trust, athletes from all backgrounds and disciplines have achieved great things on the world stage. I feel lucky to be one of their athletes and look forward to seeing the Trust grow even further in the future.”
Reflecting on her proudest moments to date Kathryn adds: “Internationally, in September 2023, becoming European Mixed Field Team Champion alongside Ollie Hicks for Team GB was brilliant.
“We both also won our individual European titles at that event, which made it even more memorable.
“Nationally, winning gold at BUCS Indoors in 2025 for Ulster University was incredibly special. It was such a surprise result – a reminder that anything is possible if you work hard enough for it.
“I’m incredibly grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had through archery, and the support from organisations like the Mary Peters Trust as well as from my parents and club. I’m so excited for what the future holds, both on the shooting line and beyond.”
