Archers aiming for bullseyes and blue ribbons

RONAN – Bull’s eyes were plentiful as arrows whizzed into their targets at the Lake County Fair archery contest.

Nerves were tingling as the young contestants aimed to prove themselves. Parents and other interested spectators gave quiet support in the background.

Just under fifty 4-H’ers took over the Ronan Fair grounds July 26, to participate in this year’s shooting events.

Nearly an equal number of girls and boys demonstrated their prowess in both the archery field round and the 3-D round which had the contestants using their bows to ‘hunt’ wildlife manikins.

Bursts of popping sounds could be heard emanating from inside the Ronan Community Center building while the archery events were being held outside. Inside, the contestants were competing in the air gun classes. Both air pistol and air rifle events were held with shooters ranging in age from 9-18 years.

The skill level of even the youngest shooters was a clear testament to both the training by dedicated 4-H leaders and shooting experts and the intense individual practice by the boys and girls themselves.

During hours of competition only one wayward arrow went completely off course piercing the tin on one of the animal barns.

The overwhelming majority of the shots found their targets and in many rounds the fletchings appeared to be sprouting out of mostly the yellow bull’s eyes.

With this kind of accuracy, there will be many full freezers throughout Lake County come hunting season.

Results of the shooting events will be included with the other fair results after the completion of the fair.

Editors note: Marla Hall was author and photographer of last week’s 4H Kelsch boys item.