9-year-old archer is right on target

HERRIN, Ill. — While some 9-year-olds may have read or seen movies about Robin Hood, Molly McHargue has been perfecting her archery skills and winning competitions like her dad, Paul McHargue of Herrin.

Molly was awarded second place July 17 in the cub division for 8- to 10-year-olds at the International Bow Hunters Organization Traditional World Championship in Clarksville, Tenn.

Paul wants to get more kids involved.

“It’s a huge confidence builder,” he said. “Not all kids can play football. Archery is good for focus and self-esteem.”

Paul has been involved in archery for 20 years, while Molly has been involved for three years. They go deer hunting together, but Molly has not yet bagged a deer.

Molly plans to continue competing and has set her goal of someday winning the World Title in Tennessee. She will get her first shot at the title when she is older.

Next year she will be competing in the same class as this year and will be the oldest age allowed in that class. Her chances of winning are good, her father said.

In order to reach her goals, Molly practices two hours a day in her family’s backyard. On hot days, the McHargues use the air-conditioned M&R Bowstrings facility in Carrier Mills.

“They treat Molly like she’s theirs,” said Paul.

So far none of her friends has picked up the sport. Down in Tennessee, thousands of school children are involved in archery, Paul said.

Paul won fourth place in Long Bow at the Clarksville competition. Larry Hughes of Murphysboro won 11th place in the primitive class. All three are members of Pyramid Archers Society Traditional in Du Quoin.

Nancey Norris of Lake of Egypt placed sixth in Female Recurve.