Superior Archery

When most of us think of archery, we think of bowhunting. Our memories range from early frost-filled mornings in the mountains, to evenings spent in a tree stand watching nature at its best, to dreams of hunting adventures yet to come. We are lucky; we live in Montana where bowhunting is a realized dream. Worldwide, the largest form of archery is target archery. Why would anyone want to just shoot a bow and arrow set with no hope of ever taking to the trail and matching wits with the wild? Perhaps it is because target archery is as much a social activity as it is a competitive sport. Most sports are spectator sports with only the super talented competing. Not so with archery. Archery is a lifetime sport the whole family, generations of family, friends and colleagues, men, women, and children alike can enjoy no matter what their skill level. Archery is a unique recreational opportunity that provides a source of enjoyment for everyone. It does not discriminate based on physical or mental ability and is enjoyable to all.

In 2002, National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) was born in Kentucky. Since that time, over 7.1 million youth have participated in archery via the NASP program. Over 7,361 schools have joined and include the NASP program as a P.E. class. There are state NASP tournaments, regional tournaments, on-line tournaments, and a yearly national NASP tournament. In fact, the national NASP tournament is currently the largest tournament in the nation, surpassing the World Archery Festival.

Again, why would anyone want to just shoot a bow and arrow set with no hope of ever taking to the trail and matching wits with the wild? The spirit of archery is why. With archery, the possibilities are endless—it is an Olympic sport, it is hunting the high mountains and river bottoms, it is an indoor sport as well as an outdoor sport, it is a dusty 3D trail, it is an outdoor field course, it is a social activity as well as a competitive activity, and it encompasses all skill levels. Archery can take you to your dreams. Superior Archery was conceptualized because of the spirit of archery. We wanted to grow, nurture, and make the opportunity available to all, whether they wish to chase their dreams or are just looking for a fun social activity. For the past seven years, all of you have been supporting the spirit of archery and keeping it alive for future generations. I thank you for that. — T.J. Smith