I shot the three Triple Crown shoots last year and the State Championship shoot in Black Diamond and had a blast at each. My feeling is that HC had a very poor showing in each of the shoots. If I can get third in the TC and win the state shoot in my first year, then either the class is not respected enough by the good shooters to encourage their participation or I am doing better than I think. I really don't think it's the latter reason, so going to a shoot where I have to shoot well to qualify is my main reason for thinking about switching classes.
I've been bowhunting for 23 years, but hunting doesn't count too much when judging yardage and trying to get within 1 yard to be accurate enough to be highly competitive in the 3D world. I try hard to do the things that I think it takes; I shoot unmarked 3D and blank bale pretty much every day and work out with archery related exercises on a regular routine, but it would be nice to know what the guys that win at the national level are doing for their preparation. I figure the best way to find out is to go over there and shoot against them.
Hoyt, let me know if you're serious about sharing the car and hotel. I posted a notice on the bulletin board in the archery shop, and I'll pull that if you are ready to commit. I've got the tickets already purchased and am going whether I qualify or not.
