From Mexico to the Netherlands

My Name is Gabriela Bayardo, I used to represent Mexico in Archery from 2010 until April 2018, now I represent The Netherlands.

Well, it all started in 2016 when I met my bf Mike Schloesser who represents the Netherlands in archery as well.

In 2017 I decided to move here, and start a new life, of course, it was difficult to leave my country but I knew I had another chance to keep doing what I love the most, archery! I needed it to wait one year after I left Mexico to finally represent the Netherlands.

In 2018 I moved to the Netherlands and started a new life, I normally train together with Mike at our place. We have the chance to train in our backyard. It is really nice to always have someone to train with. I like it a lot here, it feels like home.

There some days that I miss my family a lot, but I know they are happy for me cause I’m following my dreams. even though I’m far, far away.

I like the Dutch team, the coaches always are willing to help me out and I feel that they trusted me when I first joined the team.

I’m happy with the decision I’ve made and cannot wait for the future!

Photographs courtesy of Pridex Media & Tim Buitenhuis