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Hitting the Bullseye BY PADEN HUGHES
Although Robin Hood has been on the scene since most American childrens’ Disney movie watching days, Katniss Everdeen has only just joined the legacy of heroes who rely on their archery skills. Some attribute the box office success of The Hunger Games trilogy to archery’s recent rise in popularity. I’ll be the first to admit, there is something nostalgic and empowering about using a bow and arrow to hit that yellow bullseye.
A couple months ago, my husband and I stumbled upon a free archery clinic out of town and our inner warriors were unleashed for a few treasured hours. I’ve honestly never been more proud of hitting a bullseye or target than I have with a bow and arrow.
We ventured to find a place in San Luis Obispo where we could continue to refine our recently acquired skills. If for no other reason than to prove it wasn’t beginner’s luck.
We found archery through the San Luis Obispo Sportsmens’ Association (SLOSA), commonly known as the “shooting range” off Highway 1 as you make your way to Morro Bay. You may miss it as you drive by, but there is a designated archery range to the left of the shooting range.
This facility provides long-range and short-range targets, as well as some traditional bullseye targets and some with life-sized rubber animal targets. We were encouraged by the prices. It was only $5 for members (including equipment rentals) or $7 for non-members. We were given compound bows and arrows and met the instructor of the course for a quick rundown of technique and safety tips. From there the course was open to us to roam to targets and practice our aim. Archery is a fun but technical sport, from the strength it takes to pull back the bow, to the finesse of making each motion fluid, and the precision of the aim. It truly is a unique experience and we enjoyed ourselves immensely. If you are looking for an inexpensive, active excursion, SLOSA’s archery range is a must-do adventure. SLO LIFE
SLOSA has recently opened a second course for archery that is a walking range with 14 targets. It’s open the 3rd Sunday of the month at 9am. The main range is open 9am2pm Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday and also from 3pm to dusk on Thursday and Friday.
DIRECTIONS
Driving on Highway 1 North from San Luis Obispo, pass Camp San Luis (California National Guard base) and Cuesta College. Look for the white wooden fence on the right (northeast) and turn onto Gilardi Road. The driveway splits immediately to the right and left. Turn left to reach the archery range and drive until you come to the last parking lot.
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