Right on target
3-D archery shoot provides competition and camaraderie in winter
LYONS BROOK, N.S. — Deer, rabbits and even a dinosaur were all prey in the gymnasium of West Pictou Consolidated School on Feb. 16 as the Northumberland Strait Shooters Archery Club hosted a 3-D tournament.
Dozens of 3-D animal targets, which are made of self-healing foam, were spread across the gymnasium as competitors stood on the line at the entrance of the gym and took aim before sending their arrows flying towards the targets.
“Through the Archery Association of Nova Scotia we do this during the wintertime on the weekends,” said Northumberland Strait Shooters president Matt MacDonald.
The turnout for this particular tournament, with slightly more than 25 competitors, wasn’t as high as he would have liked but given the weather and the other activities that keep people busy he said it was understandable. Typically, they’ll have between 35 and 40 competitors for their indoor shoots and upward of 100 at their outdoor shoots.
For him, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular.
“Look down the line. Everybody is having fun, laughing and carrying on.”
While they try to improve all the time, he said they also try not to take it too seriously.
“It’s not about the money. It’s not about prizes, It’s about getting out and having fun and enjoying it.”
Bruce Spears of Westville said it’s a good family sport that people of all ages can enjoy.
“I started with my wife and two kids shooting,” he said.
Others, like Dean Dort of Chezzetcook, shoot solo.
“For me it’s all about the competition and shooting against buddies,” he said. “You get to razz them a little bit.”