From South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department

-- Grab your bow and head to Hartford Beach State Park to show off your skills. The annual 3-D Archery shoot, sponsored by the Milbank Valley Archers, is Sept. 13-14. Contestants can register between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., and must complete their rounds by 5 p.m. on Saturday and 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Participants can shoot in competition or just for fun. Competition categories are based on equipment used, age, and gender. Youngsters are welcome and will shoot the same targets as adults, but from closer locations. A "Tough Man" option is also available, in which shooters must shoot from difficult locations. Families can shoot a round together, even if competing in different categories.
 
"The steep wooded landscape of Hartford Beach lends itself to some interesting shooting opportunities," said Jeff Nodsle, park manager. "The course consists of 40 three-dimensional, life-size animal targets. The first 20 targets are along the Prehistoric Village Trail, and the second set of targets is along the Beach Trail."

This tournament is sanctioned by the National Field Archery Association. The cost is $15 per person, and a park entrance license is required to get into the park. Food and refreshments will be available.

This event is held each year during the second weekend in September. Hartford Beach State Park is located 15 miles north of Milbank off SD 15. Call (605) 432-6374 for more information.

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