An estimated 2,700 students from more than 90 schools across the state will be heading to the Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center and Pioneer Livestock Pavilion on the Iowa State Fairgrounds March 7 and March 8 for the 14th National Archery in the Schools Program State Tournament. This is the largest youth archery tournament held in the state. “Many schools have welcomed this sport to the school because it engages students of all physical ability,” says Zach Benttine, archery coordinator for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). “Archery is mostly a mental sport which challenges students to work on focus and attention to detail. This sport is not only fun, but it’s safe and anyone and everyone can do it,” Benttine adds. Competitions will begin at 8 a.m. both days for bullseye and 3D categories. One hundred bullseye competitors will be able to shoot at the same time on 50 targets and 48 at the 24 targets set up for 3D shooters. Admission to the tournament is $5 for those 18 and older. Kids 17 and younger are free.
