Question 1

What if I am not military or veteran, can I still participate?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely! We warmly welcome participants from all backgrounds – military, veterans, and civilians alike. Our goal is to bring the entire community together for a fantastic 3D archery experience. Come on out and join the challenge!

Question 2

What should I bring to a Valor Archery Challenge event?

Accepted Answer

If you have your own gear, bring your bow (compound, recurve, or traditional), plenty of arrows since our challenging courses can be tough even for experienced bowhunters, optics such as binoculars or a rangefinder, and comfort and safety gear like hiking boots, water, and snacks. If you're new to archery or don't have equipment, we offer a complete rental package for $15 that includes a rental bow (adult or kid size), 6 arrows, a hip quiver, and an arm guard. Just bring comfortable footwear, water, and a sense of adventure.

Question 3

I'm active duty or a veteran dealing with stress, anxiety, PTSD, or loneliness, and I've never tried archery. Is Valor Archery Challenge a good fit for me?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. "Archery as Therapy" is central to our mission — we believe in the profound therapeutic benefits of archery, including focus, mindful breathing, connection with nature, and a sense of accomplishment. You do not need any prior experience; our coaches and volunteers are there to guide complete beginners through every step. Our community is welcoming, with a strong presence of fellow veterans, active military, and supportive civilians. Rentals and coaching are available, and there's no pressure to perform — just come to learn, relax, and enjoy. If you'd like to talk before signing up, you can reach us at support@valorarcherychallenge.com.

Question 4

Is this a kid-friendly event?

Accepted Answer

Definitely! Kids 12 and under shoot for free with a paid adult, making it a great opportunity to introduce the whole family to 3D archery in a fun, supportive environment.

Question 5

I've never shot a bow before but would like to participate — is coaching available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Rental equipment and beginner coaching are available at designated Valor events. Check the individual event page for availability.

Question 6

My friend doesn't have a bow but wants to come — do you have a bow they can borrow?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer rental packages for $15 that include a bow, 6 arrows, an arm guard, and a hip quiver, available in both adult and kids' sizes. A registration fee for the event is also required.

Question 7

What are the events or courses like?

Accepted Answer

Our courses offer a welcoming experience for beginners without sacrificing the excitement experienced archers crave, through creative shot scenarios and a wide variety of targets. Our exclusive moving targets add a unique layer of fun and realism not found at other events.

Question 8

Are there novelty shots similar to other events?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We mix things up with novelty shots like busting clay pigeons with an arrow, hitting moving targets, playing tic-tac-toe with fellow archers, navigating the swinging ball of doom, and testing your luck at 5-card archery stud.

Question 9

I want to shoot the longer distances, but my friend isn't comfortable — can we move up?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We encourage archers to shoot from a distance where they feel confident, as long as you stay between the marked shooting cone and the target cone.

Question 10

Do I need to register online, or can I show up and pay at the event?

Accepted Answer

Walk-up registration is permitted, but we highly encourage registering online beforehand to streamline check-in and secure your preferred nock time. Walk-up archers are accommodated as space allows.

Question 11

What is the refund policy?

Accepted Answer

Single event tickets can be refunded up to 30 days before the event starts, or if Valor Archery Challenge cancels the event; no refunds are offered after that deadline. Season pass tickets are non-refundable but can be transferred to another person by contacting us at least 14 days before an event. SimpleTix, our third-party registration platform, does not refund its processing fees.

Question 12

Can spectators attend the Valor Archery Challenge?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Spectators are welcome to walk the entire course free of charge. We encourage family, friends, and supporters to come experience the challenge and camaraderie, as long as they follow all safety rules while on the range.

Question 13

What are the safety rules on the course?

Accepted Answer

Confirm you're shooting at your correctly identified target before releasing an arrow. Never shoot if anyone is at or near the target. Announce "Clear!" after your group retrieves all arrows and moves a safe distance away. Retrieve missed arrows quickly to keep the course moving. Wear bright or reflective clothing for visibility. Follow all instructions from staff and volunteers, and stay on marked paths.

Question 14

Why aren't crossbows allowed at Valor Archery Challenge events?

Accepted Answer

Crossbows aren't permitted because the speed and force of their bolts cause excessive wear and damage to our 3D targets, and bolts can be difficult to remove, which slows down the course for other participants.