ARCHERY: Queensland’s Semra Ferguson has earned Australia a quota spot in the women’s archery competition at this year’s Olympics, after winning the Oceania qualifiers in Tonga.

26-year-old Ferguson, who burst onto the Australian archery scene by winning the Australian Open just over 12 months ago, finished ahead of fellow Australians Chloe Grabs and Ella Byrne at the Olympic qualifier.

“I feel a lot of relief, a sense that finally it’s been done,” Ferguson said.

Australia has already qualified a 3-member men’s team for the Olympics after a strong performance at last year’s World Championships.

Ferguson fell just short of Olympic qualification at the World Championships, but proved the master in tough, windy conditions in Tonga on Thursday morning.

“I was pretty disappointed at missing out last year,” she said.

“I’ve had a few ups and downs since then, but I definitely feel like I’m heading in the right direction now.

“Today was probably the worst conditions I’ve ever shot in, but it was also a pretty special location, right in front of the Royal Palace.”

The Australian team will be announced after an upcoming World Cup event in Shanghai and a training camp next month.

“Even though we’ve now got a spot, I can’t allow myself to get too excited,” Ferguson said.

“We’ve still got a few weeks of qualifying, so hopefully it goes my way.”

Four men, three-time Olympian, Matt Gray, 2012 Olympian, Taylor Worth, World Indoor Champion, Ryan Tyack, and Victoria’s Alec Potts, are in the mix for the three men’s positions, while Ferguson is favourite to secure the women’s nomination.

Ross Solly for Archery Australia