The Estevan Archery Club is aiming to bring new members into the fold with a free drop-in trial day at the end of the month.
Set for June 29, the event will run from noon to 4 p.m. and is open to anyone curious about the sport. No equipment or prior experience is required, as the club will have gear and coaches on site to help participants get started.
“It’s for non-members to come try archery to see if they like it,” said club member Jade Biletsky. “We’ll have coaches down there to help set up equipment. We have bows and arrows available, so people don’t have to bring anything.”
The event will also offer information on the club’s membership options and youth programming. The Junior Olympic Program, or JOP, runs from October to March and is currently operating on a waitlist, but spots occasionally open up.
Biletsky said the club is also hoping to encourage adult and family memberships.
“It’s a great family sport,” she said. “If you get a family membership, you can get a key and come down and shoot whenever you want, other than during youth times.”
Youth sessions run Monday through Thursday evenings, and adult member nights are held Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. Members also gain access to indoor shooting and events, including plans for a new outdoor range.
While most events are limited to members, Biletsky said the club will be hosting an outdoor 3D shoot August 16 and 17 that is open to the public for a fee. Unlike regular target practice, 3D archery involves shooting at foam animal targets along an outdoor course.
“It’s kind of fun. It’s out in the trees and you walk around and shoot at realistic-size animals,” she said.
Biletsky hopes the trial day will not only boost awareness but show newcomers just how accessible and enjoyable the sport can be.
“At the very least, it’s just a fun trial day and something to do with the family for a couple of hours.”
For more information or to receive details about upcoming events, follow the Estevan Archery Club on social media.