BACK BAY — Mounted archers from Hampton Roads and beyond competed this past month during the 2nd Annual Summer Sizzler, a national ranking competition for enthusiasts of a unique, challenging sport.
It brought 15 competitors to LZ-Grace Warrior Retreat/One Red Maple Barn in Virginia Beach on Saturday, July 23, and Sunday, July 24, and it was hosted by 757 Horse Archers, formed five years ago.
Michelle Baca of Back Bay, president of 757 Horse Archers, was among the competitors, and she said she and others started the group for practical reason and to hone skills.
Among other things, they worked with the help of people such as Elizabeth Tinnan, a Tennessee horseback archer and instructor.
“It’s exhilarating,” Baca said. “It’s not only being able to ride the horse, but being able to hit the target. It can take quite a bit of courage to drop the reins on a running horse.”
Naomi Evans, 15, of Franklinton, North Carolina, said she found the sport through trainer and rider Lila Corey of Caballera Farm after seeking out barrel racing. Part of the appeal is that it is still a rare endeavor.
“Not a lot of people can say they rode a horse and shot arrows off of it,” Evans said.
Learn more about 757 Horse Archers on Facebook via @757HorseArchers or email 757horsearchers@gmail.com.
Way to say it, Naomi! I’m so proud of you! I’m too nervous to do any sort of competition.
Great action shots.