Archery is a sport that has seen tremendous growth the past six years.What makes archery so popular is that all ages and skill levels can participate.Alabama has strong support for this growing sport.
Several public archery parks can now be found in Alabama.The Division of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has constructed these parks in Dothan, Cullman, and Athens, with additional proposed parks for Demopolis, Heflin and Huntsville.These parks have targets that archers can come and shoot at no charge, and they are also used by archery organizations in the state for archery tournaments.
The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) has seen participation jump in Alabama since its induction in 2003.Approximately 153 Alabama schools now offer programs for their students.Over 1,000 of these boys and girls competed at the State Championships in Birmingham this year.There were twelve schools representing Alabama at the 2009 National Championships, with Asheville Middle School from Asheville, Alabama winning the NATIONAL title!It is a great program that continues to appeal to youngsters in grades 4 through 12.Check with your local school to see what might be offered for your children.
The Ben Pearson Archery Company is located in Brewton.They are the oldest bow manufacturer in the country, and produce the highest quality bows right here in Alabama!My husband and I have been competing with a Pearson bow all year, and have been completely impressed with the quality and dependability of this product.Check out their great products at www.benpearson.com.
I am affiliated with a terrific organization called Bowhunters of Alabama (BHA).We shoot 3-D archery tournaments throughout the state from February through August.Some of our tournaments have taken place at the newly constructed archery parks. For those who like to compete, we have divisions for all ages and skill levels.Many of our participants are families that love to spend a day in the outdoors together.My husband and son shoot with me every weekend.All levels of archers are welcome, and many are first time shooters who can find assistance and instruction from our more experienced shooters.BHA chapters can be found throughout the state, with several chapters located in the Southern Zone.These chapters include Covington, Brewton, Mobile, Baldwin and Dothan.Take a minute to visit our website at www.alabamabowhunter.com.
If you’ve never been involved in archery, you may want to give it a try.It is a wonderful sport that promotes fitness, fellowship and fun!Take the time to check out an archery park in your area, visit a school archery practice, or check out an archery website.You’ll be glad you did!
Melanie Blythe Coultas
I am a former competitive swimmer, having spent twelve years swimming in Mobile, and then swimming for Auburn University.I was introduced to archery four years ago by my husband, Chris, and have found that I love this sport just as much as swimming.Competition, challenge, and camaraderie can all be found in archery, but the bottom line is, it’s just FUN!
