More than 100 archers braved the blustery wind conditions last weekend to participate in an indoor 3D shoot and, as usual, members of the Quesnel River Archers led the way.
The two-day event, held at Gamache’s arena, saw archers shoot two rounds of 20 targets on Saturday and another two rounds on Sunday, explained Quesnel River Archers club member Wayne Schaefer.
In all there were 35 different targets, some of which highlighted a well-developed funny bone among 3D archers, including a giant-sized mosquito and an over-inflated cobra.
Depending on the age of the participant, archers from Vanderhoof south to 100 Mile House, took aim at targets up to 50 yards away.
“The challenge is to accurately judge the distance,” Schaefer said.
“Experience is key, you get better at it.”
The targets are laid out by size and distance, such that a mosquito at 30 yards presents as difficult a challenge as a bear at 50 yards.
In fact, despite the fact there was a bear target and an elk target at 50 yards, Schaefer pointed to two nearer targets as likely candidates to give archers a difficult time.
“There’s a skunk at 45 yards and a mosquito at 35 yards, those are probably the toughest,” Schaefer said.
After two days of competition the leader board was populated with several familiar names, such as Brianne Foley, Devin Cook, Michael Wright and Cathy Schaefer.
But there were also some new names, such as Brad Chudiak.
Chudiak, better known for his exploits on the golf course took up archery two years ago at the suggestion of friend George Walker.
“The level of concentration for each individual shot,” Chudiak said to describe what it was about archery he enjoyed.
“There’s great camaraderie too.”
Chudiak, in only his third shoot, finished third in the Masters Open category with a score of 691, just behind Walker in second place with a score of 707.
Chudiak also recognized the QRA has a unique quality that benefits all members.
“Our club probably has more provincial champions per capita than any other club in the province,” Chudiak said.
“We have so many great teachers, instructors and people who are willing to just give you advice to improve your shooting.
“I’ve been very fortunate to have those kinds of people look after me and give me that support.”
The most difficult part with archery, Chudiak has learned, is consistency and that, he said, requires two things.
“Practice,” he said with a chuckle.
“Your concentration has to be perfect for every single shot.”