There’s nothing quite like the meditative thrill of archery—but what if we told you there’s something even more exhilarating? Welcome to the world of mounted archery, a captivating blend of horsemanship, precision, and pure adrenaline that transforms traditional archery into an extraordinary equestrian discipline.
Mounted archery, also known as horse archery, dates back centuries as a formidable combat technique. A mounted archer is a skilled cavalryman armed with a bow, capable of delivering accurate shots while riding at speed from horseback. In sprawling open landscapes, this technique revolutionized hunting, livestock protection, and medieval warfare. Today, it stands as a testament to the incredible bond between horse and rider—and to the warriors who mastered this demanding art.
One man is single-handedly keeping this ancient tradition alive in the modern era: Lucas Novotny, a world-renowned mounted archer and horseback riding expert who represents the very pinnacle of this challenging discipline.
The Magic of Mounted Archery
When asked about his passion for mounted archery, Novotny eloquently captures the essence of the sport: “There’s something magical about seeing the arrow fly and hit the target. Archery is difficult enough on the ground; to be on the back of a horse and to feel the wind on your face, it is a challenge and I like challenges.”
These words perfectly encapsulate why mounted archery captivates riders and archers worldwide. It’s not just about hitting a target—it’s about synchronizing with your horse, reading wind patterns, maintaining balance, and executing precision under dynamic conditions.
Watch Lucas Novotny demonstrate the art of mounted archery in this incredible video:
The Craft of Bowmaking
Beyond his prowess in the saddle, Novotny is also an accomplished bowyer—a master craftsman who creates custom bows specifically designed for mounted archery. He reveals the meticulous process and incredible difficulty involved in creating the perfect bow, where every curve, every material choice, and every tension measurement directly impacts performance.
Styles from Around the World
Mounted archery isn’t a one-size-fits-all discipline. Different cultures developed unique styles rooted in their geography and combat traditions. Novotny explains the various mounted archery techniques, each originating from different regions and adapted to their specific needs:
Why Mounted Archery Matters
In today’s digital world, mounted archery offers something increasingly rare: a genuine connection to equestrian heritage and a profound mind-body-horse experience. Whether you’re drawn to the history, the challenge, or the pure joy of riding and shooting, mounted archery represents a unique intersection of athleticism, horsemanship, and ancient warrior tradition.
Thanks to passionate practitioners like Lucas Novotny, this remarkable equestrian art form continues to inspire new generations of riders and archers—proving that some traditions are simply too magnificent to let fade away.