The second stop of the ASA 3D Outdoor Archery Tour took place in Selkirk, Manitoba, and despite being a late addition to the schedule, the event proved to be a standout success. With a growing number of archers joining each stop, organizers and competitors alike are feeling the excitement and momentum building across the province.
“I think to start, this year we’ve been seeing a great deal of traction with our ASA tour events. We’ve sold out the last three events, and no sign of slowing down,” said ASA Tour organizer Sean Murray. “We’re outgrowing our current model and need to find venues that can allow us to grow with them.”
Originally not part of the tour plan, Selkirk stepped up as a host location after travel limitations forced changes. Murray credited the smooth execution of the event to the quick response and commitment of the Selkirk Archery Club and Archery Manitoba volunteers.
“After a quick call to Selkirk club’s Mike Fox, he said we could make something happen,” Murray said. “There was a great deal of help… to ensure the course was up to our standards. I was extremely pleased with what we did there as a result of the hard work.”
Competitor Anika Evans, who placed first in her division, echoed the positive sentiment about the venue and community support.
“Selkirk was a great shoot, as all these ASA shoots have been,” Evans shared. “I love the ‘tour’ aspect that allows us to visit different ranges and places around Manitoba. The Selkirk range is a beautiful space, and the course was laid out nicely.”
Evans also praised the supportive atmosphere and the effort that went into the event: “Sean and the volunteers did such a great job. The Selkirk club members were a big part of the day and clearly take pride in their range and the community, which made the day that much better.”
Karl Maczuga, who finished first in the Hunter class, also spoke highly of the experience:
“The ASA event in Selkirk was a fantastic experience. The course was well-organized, and the atmosphere among archers and organizers alike was incredibly welcoming and supportive. It was great to see such strong participation and enthusiasm for 3D archery in Manitoba. Especially having shot with two first-time shooters and hearing their enthusiasm for coming back to future events is what I love most.”
He added, “Finishing 1st in the Hunter class was a rewarding moment. It’s always fulfilling when the time spent practicing and preparing pays off, especially at an event with such a high level of competition. I’m grateful for the opportunity to compete and for the effort that Archery Manitoba puts into organizing these events. Shooting with great people and having a great time is all I ever want, winning 1st was simply a bonus.”
Looking ahead, Murray was already gearing up for the next stop: “This upcoming weekend we will be at 17 Wing, and registration is currently open for the ASA Tour Championship in Virden, Manitoba.”
On July 13th, the ASA Tour made its third stop at 17 Wing in Winnipeg, and once again, the weather and turnout aligned for another outstanding day of 3D archery.
Allan Gunter, currently ranked 2nd in the Known 50 Shooter of the Year standings, shared his thoughts during the event: “It’s good, I’ve been having a good year. The last shoot went well. The first one was a little on the low side for me, but overall, I’ve been happy,” he said.
As for his performance at 17 Wing, “Not bad,” he grinned. “It’s a great time, the courses are in great shape this year with the weather we’ve had. Every tournament we’ve had, it’s been perfect weather. So yeah, having a lot of fun.”
Also among the top performers is Wayne Jenner, who currently leads the Shooter of the Year standings for the Super Senior Men’s category. He reflected on the positive atmosphere and his progress this season:
“I’m shooting pretty well today,” he said. “The setup is all fantastic, it’s just all up to me now.”
Jenner credited the community for his development as a shooter during an interview with ASA Organizer Sean Murray. “I’ve practiced a lot, and I’ve gotten a lot of tips from other good archers like yourself and Allan, Joel and whatnot. It’s just a fantastic group to be
around; everyone’s always giving. It makes me want to give too.”
When asked what keeps him coming back, his answer was sincere and straightforward: “To score better, to beat myself. That’s the first guy I’ve got to beat is myself.”
The 17 Wing course delivered both technical challenge and scenic value, adding to the diversity of experiences offered across the tour stops. Organizers noted the steady increase in participation and praised the volunteers for their effort in setting up a smooth event.
With just one stop remaining, the ASA Tour Championship in Virden, anticipation continues to rise for the season finale. Archers across divisions are not only chasing points, but also celebrating the sense of community that’s become a defining trait of the tour.
Evans closed her earlier thoughts with a hopeful message: “I’m in great company shooting with my fellow Female Hunter ladies, but I think I can speak for all of us in saying we’d love to see the division grow along with the ASA Tour!”
