Participants get ready for the first event at the Silvertip Archers’ annual Turkey Shoot

Prince George, BC – A record turn-out to the Silvertip Archers’ annual turkey shoot, as archers of all ages were vying for the chance to snag Christmas dinner…

Silvertip’s Indoor Coordinator, Larry Malmgren, says there were 90 participants competing in a number of events – from the bag shoot, to the candle shoot, and the always popular ‘flying turkey’ (the turkey target swings glides on a rope across the range) – for one of 12 turkeys donated by Superstore.

Malmgren says this year’s shoot had a strong showing from kids aged 12 and under. 

It was the first such competition for six-year-old Tyler Fowlie, who was there alongside her dad, Jeff, and eight-year-old cousin, Jessie.

The photo at left shows Tyler getting some tips from certified coaches Malmgren (kneeling), Jim Crowe (navy shirt), and Ron Marwood (turquoise) – just three of the dedicated volunteer coaches involved in the club’s Junior Olympic Program to train young archers.

The JOP boasts 146 kids this year, many of whom were at last weekend’s event at the indoor range in the former Austin Road Elementary School.

10-year-old Michael Saunderson has been in the JOP program for the past three years and his training paid off as he clinched the 12 and under flying turkey event.

Speaking after his win, the young archer said, "I’m still shaking – I might faint when I get home."

15-year-old Sheltin Sardinha won the adult turkey shoot.  Sardinha has spent the past four years with the club.

Malmgren says, "The popularity of the club is growing as more people learn become aware of our indoor location."

The range will once again host Friday Family Fun Nights between 7pm and 9pm, starting on January 4th after the Christmas break and non-club members are welcome to come out and try the sport for a $5 drop-in fee.

For more information on the Silvertip Archers, click here.

Photo below shows the turkey winners…