| On Aug 24, 2002 15 year old Randy Oitker stood in front of 2000 people
to show his skill and personality at the ASA World Classic Championship.
Randy was introduced by one time Oak Ridge Boy, TV personality and avid
bowhunter Dave Watson. He has known Randy since 1996 and proudly introduced
him as the youngest trick shooter in archery history. He said Randy used
to come to these tournaments with a pacifier in his mouth but he could
shoot a bow!
Randy Oitker making his
2 arrow, two baloon shot.
Never one to disappoint, Randy started off by nailing his two balloon
shot. Two arrows shot at the same time at two raccoon targets, each with
a balloon attached at 20 yards.
But this was only a warm up as Randy's next feat was to try and break
two Lifesaver candies on two turkey targets at 20 yards. Most people looked
on a bit skeptical as young Randy drew back for this incredibly difficult
shot. The release was crisp but while the arrows scored an 8 and a 10 on
each target, they missed the Lifesavers. The entire crowd fell silent as
each could feel the anguish as Randy looked to Dave. Dave, ever the showman
however announced one more try.
Once again the youngster set his feet, nocked his arrows and looked
down range, his eyes locking on those two miniscule white lifesavers. As
the crowd held a collective breath and watched, Randy drew his 70# Mathews
and held for what seemed like forever. Then, as before, the release was
crisp, the arrows streaked down range like two guided missiles and like
Desert Storm they each shattered their target.
Randy beamed, his parents let out a long collective breath and the crowd
applauded. This is what makes archery the incredible sport it is and young
archers like Randy are what will make sure the sport lives on for the next
generation to enjoy.
 If
you are a follower of Bowhunting Net you will recognize Randy as one of
our newest and the youngest Columnist. If you are not familiar with his
name now, you will be. He, and others like him are the shot in the arm
we need. He is our future.
Watch for more articles from Randy in his column on Bowhunting.net in
his column From The Eyes Of
A Young Archer. He is now hunting in Idaho with his Dad. I'm sure
some exciting things will result.
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