Archery

All campers first learn the basic anatomy of the bow and arrow, and safety rules for shooting. Then, at either five or 10 yards away from the target, depending upon age, campers practice aiming and shooting. When an archer has achieved success at one distance, additional yards are added, with a maximum distance of 35 yards attainable.

Older campers are also taught simple arrow repair, such as re-glueing points; but all girls learn the value and reward of patience and concentration when aiming for a target.

"A well-placed arrow, shot so straight it disappears into the target, gives a feeling of satisfaction everyone can enjoy. I find it remarkably relaxing (considering how hard my arm muscles must work to hold the bow steady) to let out that final breath before release, letting the string slip through my fingers. Somehow, the simple motion of drawing and releasing makes me feel powerful and graceful, strong and calm. And, of course, I love teaching the campers to shoot and seeing the excitement on their faces when their arrows begin to hit the target, then cluster, then bull's eye, then...'Oh please, Amanda, just one more round...the bell must be early...we have a few more minutes.'"
-Amanda Eaton Macomber, Archery Instructor