Al-Qalam 
By Azra Hoosen
For Abdullah Safodien, a bow is more than a piece of sporting equipment. It is a bridge to history, to Islam and to a profound personal discipline. Now 50, Safodien took up archery at the age of 42.
Reflecting on his journey, Safodien told Al-Qalam that his path was shaped by a clear guiding force – a simple sunnah echoing down the centuries. He quoted the Prophet Muhammed (SAW): ‘Teach your children horse riding and archery.’ “The wisdom of these words resonated deeply with me, and I knew that I had to embark on this journey,” he said.
Living in Johannesburg, Safodien found himself drawn to traditional archery, but access to formal training was scarce. “Undeterred, I took it upon myself to craft my own bow and learn the art of shooting solo,” he said.
What followed was countless hours of research, experimentation and practice as he was determined to not just learn but master the craft. “This self-taught journey, though challenging, instilled in me a sense of discipline and resilience,” he added.
While archery came later, Safodien was no stranger to horse-riding. “I’ve been in the saddle for over 30 years,” he shared.
That perseverance has carried him far, translating into tangible achievements: a second-place finish at the 2018 Grand African Tournament (Mounted archery), which earned him a spot on the South African Protea team for the World Championships in South Korea. That same year, he placed third in a mounted archery competition in Indonesia.
More recently, Safodien represented South Africa at the 2025 International Horseback Archery Alliance (IHAA) World Championships in Tennessee, United States, where he was placed fifth in the Masters Division – a significant accomplishment on one of the sport’s most competitive international stages.
“These achievements are a testament to the power of hard work, dedication and faith. They remind me that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible,” he said.
Competing abroad brought with it physical setbacks, injuries and demanding conditions. But through it all, Islam has shaped his approach. When Safodien began competing, he realised that archery was not just about hitting a target. “It was about connecting with a rich history and culture that transcended borders and faiths and cultivates a sense of calmness and focus,” he said.
Working with horses has further deepened that understanding. Mounted archery demands communication beyond words and an acute awareness of one’s inner state. “The horse responds to your mental strength. If you’re unsettled, it shows. As I ride and shoot, I am reminded of the interconnectedness of body, mind and spirit,” he said.
In an era defined by speed and constant stimulation, Safodien believes the preservation of traditional disciplines like archery and horse-riding is more important than ever: “These skills teach patience and awareness. They teach us to slow down and focus on the present moment. It is a reminder that there is beauty in the slow and deliberate pace of life.”
For Safodien, archery is a holistic practice that has helped him find balance and harmony in all aspects of his life. “Archery has been a catalyst for growth, pushing me to confront my fears and limitations,” he said.
That philosophy is central to the work of the Qurtuba Furusiyyah Archery Club, which Safodien is closely involved in. The club aims to make traditional archery accessible to the broader community, offering training for both children and adults.
He is particularly passionate about archery as a school extramural activity. Beyond physical coordination, he believes it teaches children focus, self-discipline and emotional regulation – skills that extend far beyond the range. “It teaches children how to manage pressure and develop patience and confidence – qualities they carry into every part of their lives,” he said.
For adults who believe it may be “too late” to start something new, Safodien offers simple reassurance: “Archery is a form of ibadah, a means of exercise and a path to spiritual growth. It is an activity that can be adapted to any age or ability, offering a sense of community and belonging. I encourage you to take the first step, to pick up a bow and arrow, and to experience the transformative power of archery for yourself.”
