From MIT Pirate Certificate to International Archery Competitions

After taking archery, part of the MIT Pirate Certificate (an underground certification that became official in 2011 and includes taking pistol, archery, sailing, and fencing), Charles Wong ’90, SM ’92 had all but forgotten about the sport. That is until six years ago, when he tried it again on a whim and turned the interest into a foray into national and international competitions.

Discovering archery and finding a coach to help him train has enriched his life and helped him professionally, says the department head in chemistry at the Southern California Coastal Water Research Project Authority.

“What I’ve found professionally is that after I’ve done a good practice or training workout…I often am very refreshed and can go back to work with renewed vigor and purpose,” explains Wong. “In both chemistry and engineering, you have to do the right thing all the time, every time if you want to get consistent results. The fact that you do that in archery really resonates with me.”

Since Covid-19 has led to the cancellation of archery tournaments around the world and closure of ranges, Wong is left to practice in the only space he has—his garage.

Watch the full video (recorded in May 2020) to hear the pros and cons of these unique training accommodations.