Bowtech’s The Rally After-Action Report
A Behind-The-Scenes Look At Bowtech's 25th Anniversary Celebration
The camaraderie was palpable as Bowtech celebrated its 25th anniversary. Nestled in the heart of Kentucky, Mountain Archery Fest transformed this beautiful landscape at Mammoth Valley Park in Cave City, KY, into an archery haven. Featuring five 3D courses and a variety of competitions, the weekend became the epicenter of celebration, honoring Bowtech's long-standing legacy and its dedicated community of bowhunters and archers.
Exclusive Access: VIP Day for Bowtech Owners
Bowtech spared no effort in ensuring this celebration was one for the books. Day one was dedicated exclusively to Bowtech owners. These attendees were treated to a VIP experience packed with special perks. For a $50 shooter entry fee, Bowtech owners gained access to the entire festival. They enjoyed free competition registration for all three days. Each VIP received a complimentary "swag bag" with exclusive Bowtech merchandise and partner discounts.
Attendees were treated to an array of family-friendly activities and an assortment of food trucks, ending both evenings with a complimentary dinner serving mouthwatering Four 6666 steaks and live music. This event wasn't just about celebrating Bowtech's legacy; it was about honoring the dedication of the archery community that has supported the brand throughout the years. VIPs enjoyed an exclusive autograph session with the Bowtech ambassadors on Friday night, creating memorable moments for fans and followers.
Giving Back: Folds Of Honor & The Honor Bow
Adding to the significance, proceeds from the event benefited the Folds of Honor organization, highlighting Bowtech's commitment to giving back. Friday evening, we watched as Col. Nick Nichols shared more about Folds of Honor and their continued efforts to support families of fallen and disabled military members and first responders. One of the standout moments was the unveiling and launch of the limited edition Bowtech's Honor Bow.
Bowtech then presented Col. Nichols with the first Honor Bow, which is more than just a bow; it was designed as a tribute to the efforts and mission of Folds of Honor. A portion of the proceeds from the Honor Bow will be donated to support Folds of Honor, emphasizing Bowtech's dedication to this cause, further marking another chapter in the brand's storied history.
Archers Unite: General Admission Day At The Rally
The second day was general admission, open to all archers. As I mingled with those participating, I realized the level of respect among the archery community. There was a tangible grit in the air. Everyone understood the battle between body and building a setup to hone your skills. Bowtech pulled out all the stops, hosting several of their renowned ambassadors. Attendees had the unique opportunity to shoot at the practice range alongside archery icons such as Eva Shockey, Paige Pearce, Mike and Shawn from Heartland Bowhunter, Mike Stroff, and Alli Butler.
In addition to these hands-on experiences, some ambassadors led insightful seminars, sharing their expertise, and a couple of lucky winners were able to shoot the 3D course with them. Attendees shopped at the vendor village and capped the evening with a complimentary Four 6666 steak dinner and value-packed raffles.
Expert Heartland Bowhunter Advice
I spent the morning shooting some of the carbon and exotic courses with Mike and Shawn from Heartland Bowhunter. I gained access to the genesis of their story, being middle school friends with a passion for hunting that turned into visual storytelling. Michael Hunsucker shared his main advice to bowhunters: "Find confidence in your equipment and gear setup and your emotions. No matter what you shoot, build something that helps you shoot your best." Later that evening, I caught up with Mike Stroff inquiring on the same subject, and he emphasized, "Speed doesn't always mean kill. Focus on building a solid quality setup that performs."
Wise Words From Paige Pearce, Eva Shockey & Allie Butler
On the practice range with Paige Pearce, she expressed her excitement about witnessing the Bowtech crest, which is an impressive 25-year mark. "It's been cool coming from the Target side, seeing the technology created in the last few years as Bowtech built the leading target bows. Then, they added that tested technology to the hunting bows, giving them that tunability and shootability."
It was interesting when asking all the Ambassadors how long they had been shooting Bowtech, they all had to count years. Eva Shockey stated, "I started shooting a Bowtech over 12 years ago. I never want to pick up anything else because it was so accurate." Allie Butler shared, "I've been shooting Bowtech since high school. I've never picked up another brand of bow. Starting years ago, with the Diamond, now I shoot the Eva Gen3."
Bowtech's 25th Anniversary Celebration, The Rally, had a festive atmosphere. The event celebrated a milestone and reinforced the values of camaraderie, commitment, and giving back. Every moment was a reminder of the strong bond within the Bowtech archery community. As Bowtech continues to innovate and lead, it remains grounded in its mission to support and uplift its dedicated customers.
For more, check out bowtecharchery.com.