Calgary Archery Centre shuts down after 27 years

The Calgary Archery Centre is shutting down after more than a quarter-century in southeast Calgary.

After 27 years of providing a space for locals to hone their bow and arrow skills at its self-described “world's biggest and best indoor archery range,” the two ranges and large retail shop are closing in mid-november.

“We have provided an outlet for the community to experience all aspects of archery for hunting, competition and recreational,” business owners Alan and Lorna Southwood wrote in a notice posted on Facebook. “The success of our company is due to our dedicated patrons, employees and pro staff shooters. We appreciate and thank you for your business and support over the years.”

The post saddened the long-standing business's customers across the city as the news spread across various social media platforms, with hundreds of comments thanking the owners and wishing them well.

“I didn't realize how much of an impact we had on everybody until we saw all the responses,” Lorna said of the social media response.

The Southwoods said the move comes after the building owner opted not to renew their lease. It marks the end of the husband-andwife duo's decades of building the sport of archery in Calgary.

“We've been in it for a long time,” said Lorna. “If it were possible to stay here, we probably would for a few more years, but we're not able to stay in our space because the landlords have other directions they wanted to take the space.”

The business has been in operation since 1978, initially as Robin Hood, then Vichers for a brief period. Alan had worked for the previous owners for several years before he and his wife purchased it in 1995, changing the name to the Calgary Archery Centre.

The centre's closing sale began Thursday, as it begins to clear out the space for its November move.