The small community of Gimlet, in central Alberta, will play host to a large gathering of archery enthusiasts during the 11th annual Oilman’s Archery Shoot, set to take place June 1 & 2.
Organizers say they expect around 1,500 people to arrive at the archery shoot location, approximately 35 minutes east of Rocky Mountain House and 17 minutes north of Withrow.
Tournament organizer, Frank Wiebe says participants and spectators will be arriving from near and far.
“We have archers of all different calibers,” says Wiebe. “If you’re just coming out for the day we serve all different kinds of food and drink. Kids can come out to play and have fun.”
Wiebe says 20 targets have been set up on a rural property just west of the rodeo grounds including a moose and sasquatch. Participants will mark a score card vying for prizes such as trophies and silver or gold belt buckles.
Spectators are welcome throughout the weekend, Wiebe says, and the event is family friendly with kid-appropriate archery games, bouncy castles, and a sand pit where kids can find tokens to exchange for prizes.
The property near Gimlet is the third location in the tournament’s 11-year history, says Wiebe, as previous tournaments had been held near Rimbey and Gilby.
Wiebe says while it’s too late to register for the tournament, he invites everyone to watch the tournament, as many former spectators have become future participants.
“That’s how a lot of people get involved,” says Wiebe. “They see how much fun everyone’s having, then next year they have bows, and then they’re shooting the course and just loving it.”
Organizers note proceeds from the tournament go to various charities such as STARS and Touch Global Ministries, and it expects to raise around $40,000 this year.
The tournament location is just west of the Gimlet Rodeo Grounds located eight kilometers north of Hwy. 12 on range road 4-3.
Wiebe says plenty of parking will be available on a nearby parcel of land with clearly marked signage.
Wiebe adds, 50/50 ticket sales, raffle items and an evening dinner have also been planned.
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Moose archery target near Gimlet, Alberta. (Photo: Carol Rein)
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