A 3D target at the Allen County Archers club for the last shoot of the year.
Jessica Orozco | The Lima News
SPENCERVILLE — Despite a large morning snowfall, a small group of dedicated archers shot at the Allen County Archers’ last shoot of the season on Saturday.
Wade Cole, the club’s president, said about five archers show up to every shoot, while those with clearer conditions are more packed. He said attendees could shoot 15 targets, many of which were 3D models of animals to simulate hunting.
Neal Wallace, of St. Marys, said he’s practiced archery since 1965. He won a world competition in 2008, but said he is more of a hobbyist and hunter these days.
“It’s not all about me killing stuff; it’s about just being out in nature,” Wallace said. “It’s about just being in nature, and I love that. It takes a lot off your mind.”
Wallace said the snowy conditions are perfect for shooting because “it kind of makes you feel like you’re hunting.”
Mike Smith, of New Bremen, said he’s been involved in archery for about 10 years. He said he is both a hunter and a hobbyist, and sees the sport as a great way to get out of the house.
Smith said Saturday was the first time he’s shot in the snow, which he said was quite different from what he’s used to but it was still enjoyable. He said he views himself as a novice and finds the sport relaxing.
Smith said archery is not intimidating and anyone interested in the sport should get involved.
“Get into it and enjoy it,” Smith said. “Being out here with nice people and a nice facility, it’d be real nice if people would get out here.”
Wallace said he comes from a family of archers, and growing up he watched many of his relatives shoot at home. He said when he watched an Ohio hunting crew shoot, he decided he wanted to do it himself.
Smith said he’s been a member of the Allen County club for about three years and has attended as many shoots as he was able. He said he’s excited to shoot at the club when the 2023 season starts in January.
According to the 2023 schedule, the first shoot of the year will be Jan. 21. Other shoots will be held on the following dates in 2023:
Feb. 18, March 4-5 and 18, April 1-2 and 15, May 6-7 and 20, Jun. 3-4 and 17, July 1-2 and 15, Sept. 2-3 and 16, Oct. 21, Nov. 11
For more information, contact Wade Cole at 419-302-3790.
