DECATUR-Top archers from around the world will convene in Decatur July 7-10, 2021, competing at the USA Archery JOAD (Junior Olympic Archery Development) Target Nationals and the U.S. Team Trials for the World Archery Youth Championships and Junior Pan American Games where an estimated 600 archers are registered to compete. The prestigious tournament will be held at the Jack Allen Recreation Complex located in Decatur, Ala. and is open to the public.
“It is a tremendous honor for Decatur and Jack Allen Recreation Complex to welcome USA Archery back for JOAD Nationals. In 2016, this event brought over 1,000 competitors from 45 states and seven foreign countries to our city. Feedback from event participants indicated that they loved our facility and they also enjoyed visiting area attractions and experiencing the southern hospitality we are known for,” stated Decatur Morgan County Tourism President and CEO Danielle Gibson.
The JOAD Target Nationals and U.S. Team Trials events are sanctioned by USA Archery. Archers can shoot for world records at this tournament and it is included in the roster of events to earn U.S. Archery Team status and National Ranking points. Due to the significance of this tournament, participation has increased each year, resulting in a positive economic impact for the host city. “Over 1,200 athletes, family members and supporters attend this week-long tournament which equates to thousands of room nights and significant revenue from lodging, vehicle rentals, restaurants, entertainment and area attractions for our local economy,” said Gibson.
The JOAD Target Nationals consists of a double 72-arrow qualification round, shot over two days; team rounds; and head-to-head match play (elimination rounds).
Anyone wishing to use a drone or to take photos or videos must first be credentialed by USA Archery, and will be bound by the USA Archery media policy. Please send questions and/or credentialing requests to Media and Communications Specialist Sarah Boyd at sboyd@usarchery.org or 201.919.8050.
USA Archery was formed in 1879 to develop and promote the sport of archery and is the only organization designated by the United States Olympic Committee to select and train athletes to represent the United States in the Olympics, Paralympics and Pan American Games. USA Archery is also recognized by the International Archery Federation (World Archery) to support athletes and teams to compete in World Championships, World Cups and other international competitions.
For more information, visit www.usarchery.org or contact Danielle Gibson at 800.232.5449 or 256.350.2028.
Media Release/Danielle Gibson, President & CEO
Decatur Morgan County Tourism, Inc.
