Archery is a sport for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy. That’s evident at this year’s Vegas Shoot as archers from seven to 101 years old, shoot side by side. Charles Johnson is a 101-year-old World War II veteran that’s competing in the compound flights.
Johnson was 44 when the Vegas Shoot first started, and is competing for the first time at the 57th Vegas Shoot. “This my first time here, and at times I felt like a little kid going to a circus for his first time. I really enjoyed it. My friends all told me don’t worry about scoring and just have a good time. That’s what I did,” he said.
He was introduced to archery from golf buddies and has now been shooting for five years. He hopes he can inspire others to come to the Vegas Shoot. “I hope I’ve shown the older people that you don’t have to stay at home. That you can come out and enjoy yourself. I've found archery is one of the best ways to enjoy yourself. I didn’t start until later in my life. I wish I started when I was nine years old like a lot of these guys,” Johnson said.
Archery tournaments are as much about comaradery as they are about competing. Johnson was able to experience that at his first Vegas Shoot. “I met a group of veterans that almost brought me to tears. I almost forget about being in the army, but that brought back the memories. It was wonderful,” he said.
Johnson jokingly said he doesn’t like to make long term plans at his age, but he’ll make an exception for the Vegas Shoot. “If I’m able, I will be here next year. You can bet on that,” he said.
Follow Charles competition in Vegas here.
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