Ryan Graham, Observer Reporter
The Quesnel River Archers have been known throughout their history of having a strong archery program, dedicated to the fundamentals of the sport. The club, which has been operating in Quesnel from around 1972-74, teaches people the required skills with the bow, but most importantly ensures they have an enjoyable time while learning.
President of the Quesnel River Archers Wayne Schaefer says it’s a great sport to get involved in.
“First off it’s an easy sport for the whole family to join and also has lots of options,” Schaefer said.
“Whether it’s paper shooting, 3D or long distance shooting. I would take my boys to the Legion and watch them shoot and one day they asked me if I wanted to try. Originally I said no but then that Christmas they bought me a bow and that’s how I started.”
He says the sport is always testing people to become better.
“You can challenge yourself to be the best or you can challenge the people next to you when you shoot,” Schaefer said.
“There are all sorts of challenges in this sport.”
He adds although becoming more skilled with the bow is important, they always tell people to enjoy their time while at the club.
“We teach them how to challenge themselves and be the best they can be, but more importantly we make sure they enjoy their time here.”
Schaefer says there are a number of members that are always looking to pass down their knowledge of the sport to newcomers.
“We have a very talented club and a lot of knowledgeable people here,” Schaefer said.
“They have helped both kids and adults achieve goals at nationals, B.C. championships or even individual personal goals. There is a lot of key name families that have been with this club for a lot of years, that probably hold B.C. or Canadian records.”
He says people who have never tried archery and would like a taste of what it’s all about are always welcome.
“If you don’t try it you will never know,” Schaefer said.
“Everybody at one point or another as a kid growing up had a wooden bow and played with it.”
Although an individual sport, he says there is a lot of teamwork and sportsmanship involved.
“The comradery in archery is second to none,” Schaefer said.
“We are always cheering each other on because in the end it makes us better.”
The club shoots Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. They also shoot from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday and on Wednesday they offer a bear bow class from 5-6 p.m. The club also offers an adult beginner class from September to the end of December.
If you would like more information on the club you can visit http://quesnelriverarchers.