Archery is an amazing sport, the way everything has to be in sync with the bow and arrow to hit the target. It is one of the most popular sports found in history, movies, and more, with skills that have benefited both self-defense and hunting over time.

National Archery Day celebrates this sport we know and love. National Archery Day was founded by the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) in March 2015. The NASP tournament is held in Louisville, Kentucky, on the second Saturday in May. In recent years, archery’s growing popularity is piquing people’s interest. (National Day Calendar)

Archery was an Olympic sport from 1900 – 1920, and returned to the Games in the 1970s. According to National Day Calendar, however, NASP did not begin in Kentucky until 2002. Since then, the program has expanded to 47 states and 10 countries, with over 2.1 million kids participating each year. Archery has been around since before 2800 BC when bows were being used for hunting and battle.

Like most sports, Archery builds confidence and a sense of accomplishment. It’s also social as archers can compete or simply go out together to enjoy the precision of the activity.

Archery can be practiced all year long and participants learn a lifelong respect for safety. There is even an archery range in Pena Adobe Park in Vacaville where you can enjoy a tournament, target practice or other events. To find out more, visit usarchery.org.