Beech Tree News Network

Event hosted by Southerland Farm Weddings & Events and Gasper River Archery 

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From July 25th to 27th, over 200 archers gathered at Southerland Farm Weddings and Events in Rochester, Kentucky, for the annual Kentucky ASA State Archery Tournament. With a scenic venue, competitive energy, and a friendly atmosphere, this year’s event was one to remember. Featuring archery, Kona Ice, good food, and plenty of fellowship, the tournament ranked as the second-largest ASA state shoot in the nation—a point of pride for the Kentucky archery community.

ASA (Archery Shooters Association) archery has deep roots in Kentucky, with 20 clubs spread throughout the state. It is an outdoor 3D target shoot. The season kicks off in February and concludes with the state championship in July, making this tournament the pinnacle event for many archers. However, for some, the season doesn’t end here. Many competitors will proceed to the national ASA tournament, held in Alabama, the following weekend.

Archers participating in the tournament ranged in age from as young as 6 to nearly 80 years old, showcasing the sport’s broad appeal and accessibility. Participants are divided into classes based on age and skill level. Each group, made up of four to five archers, tackles 30 life-sized 3D targets per day, 15 in the morning and 15 in the afternoon.

After the shooting is complete, scores are totaled, and the top five archers participate in a shoot-off. The shoot-off scores are added to their running totals, and the final winners are determined. For adult divisions, top honors can include a cash prize of around $2,000.

This year’s tournament drew a mix of amateurs, skilled hobbyists, and seasoned professionals—about 20 of whom were competing at the pro level. Many of the pros represented major archery brands, such as Mathews and Elite, as factory shooters, offering inspiration and mentorship to younger or newer participants.

Despite the competitive format, the atmosphere was overwhelmingly positive and welcoming. Conversations with various archers echoed a common sentiment: they were there because they love what they do. The camaraderie, sportsmanship, and shared passion for archery created a laid-back and encouraging environment for all ages. Whether shooting for fun, trophies, or cash, every archer left with new memories and a deeper appreciation for the sport.

As the ASA season winds down, Kentucky’s archery community continues to thrive; united by tradition, driven by competition, and bound by a shared love for archery. 

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Story by Jenna Tomes, Beech Tree News