Chicago Youth Archery Tournament Doubles in First Year

Sixty young archers gathered at Wicker Park Fieldhouse Saturday, each one aiming for the bullseye and a whole lot more.

The second annual Blue Line Bullseye Invitational brought together students from across Chicago for a day of friendly competition. The tournament, hosted by the Chicago Park District, saw participation double from 30 students last year to 60 this year.

Seventh-grader Chase Davenport stepped up to the line with butterflies in his stomach but confidence in his training. "I'm happy but I'm nervous, but I know I'm going to do good," he said before shooting his 20 arrows from two different distances.

Fifth-grader Andriy Shepilko placed third in his age group and credited his success to patience and focus. "Thanks to my coach, he was very helpful," Shepilko said. "And everybody there was just very supportive and supporting each other. It was just awesome."

The young competitors all participate in free Chicago Park District archery classes led by certified instructors. Supervisor Keith Jones has watched the program explode in popularity as more kids discover the sport.

Why This Inspires

Archery offers something special that other sports don't always provide. The silent concentration required teaches kids to tune out distractions and trust their training.

Davenport never touched a bow before joining the program, but now he's sharing his newfound passion with others. His family support system keeps him grounded when competition pressure builds.

"My mom, my dad, my brothers, that's what's encouraging me," Davenport said. "Like I never knew how to shoot a bow and arrow, but now I know and it's really like a good learning opportunity and a fun activity to do."

The students will return to their archery classes this fall, and Jones expects even more competitors next year. In a city where access to sports programs can be limited, this free opportunity is hitting the mark.