Free Archery Demonstration

313 Gale St.,Aurora IL 60506

16 December, 2021

Description

Watch and meet two multiple world champion archers as they perform shooting demonstrations while learning more about the sport of archery! Learn more about the fun, educational sport of archery! The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and Aurora Township Youth Services are honored to welcome multiple world champion archers: Disabled Veteran Eric "Trainwreck" Burkett and Alex Wifler. During this FREE event, all attendees will view the champion archers perform their craft, get an opportunity to personally meet them, and find out why the growing sport of archery is the perfect activity for all ages—especially youth. Archery is a sport that doesn’t discriminate based on popularity, athletic skill, gender, size, age or academic ability. Additionally, those with physical or cognitive impairments can participate alongside those without any disability. Many schools, recreational agencies, and churches have implemented archery programs based upon their educational value. For example, entities enrolled in the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) provide participants with units of study that meet state and national educational standards. As an added bonus, students can enter state and national competitions with the possibility of winning prizes — including college scholarships! Registration is required as space is limited. If you have any questions, please click on the "Contact" link below or call IDNR Director of Community Outreach Ted Penesis at 847-608-3108. A special thank you to our event partners: International Union of Painters & Allied Trades District Council 30, Fox Valley Park District, Aurora Township, City of Aurora Youth Services, Fox Valley Christian Ministerial Alliance, and the Illinois Conservation Foundation. About the Presenters:Alex Wifler (pictured above right and below) was introduced to archery at an early age, and first became a world champion when he won his age group as a 12-year-old. Among his many achievements, Alex became the youngest-ever winner of the 2015 Vegas World Shoot, the largest and most prestigious indoor archery tournament in the world. A member of the USA National Team for 10 years, Alex recently formed his own company, Wifler Industries, where he created a new archery bow component, the MP-One Plunger. His invention was used by five countries at this past summer’s Toyko Summer Olympics and is now in use throughout the world in dozens of countries. With all that archery has done for his personal growth and professional success, Alex has always made it a priority to return the favor by introducing youth to the sport. Eric “Trainwreck” Burkett (pictured above left and at top of page) is a disabled veteran who credits archery in achieving a renewed sense of joy in life. As an assault pilot with the Marine Corps in 2012, Eric was two weeks into his sixth deployment when his plane suddenly went into an uncontrolled flight and crashed. His many injuries eventually resulted in amputations of both of his legs. Rebuilding his life, Eric turned to archery, became a world champion, and says his “best days are still to come.” Now a National Level Archery Coach and USA Team Member, Eric takes great pride in helping others, especially disabled vets and children. It is the mission of the IL Dept. of Natural Resources "(t)o manage, conserve and protect Illinois' natural, recreational and cultural resources, further the public's understanding and appreciation of those resources, and promote the education, science and public safety of Illinois' natural resources for present and future generations.