LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) – Area seniors are taking their best shot at a new program launched by the Allen County Council on Aging.
Thanks to a grant from the Ohio Department of Wildlife, the council has introduced a senior archery class, giving participants a chance to try something new. The idea came from Ronald Bowerman, an avid archer whose wife attends the adult day care program. He said he wanted to find a different activity for her and others to enjoy.
On Wednesday, the first class was held with guidance from an outdoor skills specialist from the Ohio Department of Wildlife, who demonstrated proper bow techniques. Seniors who gave it a try said the experience was both fun and rewarding.
“Ain’t shot a bow since I was about 13, 14 years old,” said Jim Sheets. “Felt pretty good. You hit it every time, yeah, but I didn’t hit the bull’s-eye.”
“I like to try new things,” said Lessie Long. “Never shot a bow and arrow. I think it’s fun.”
“Anybody can shoot a bow, young and old alike,” said Jaron Beck, outdoor skills specialist with the Ohio Division of Wildlife. “It’s a change of pace for me, but I’m always up for a challenge and introducing new people to it, or reminding them what they did in the past.”
Bowerman, who helped secure the grant that provided the equipment, said the program has added benefits beyond recreation.
“It’s just the idea of having some self-esteem and knowing that your upper body strength is going to improve,” Bowerman said. “There’s a lot of muscles involved in drawing a bow and arrow.”
Bowerman will lead the weekly sessions, which will be held every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Organizers hope to eventually expand the program to include other seniors in the community. For more information, contact the Allen County Council on Aging.
