Families can try archery during open house

People curious about archery can learn about the classic sport and even test their skills during the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County's upcoming Archery Open House.

Participants will learn about the sport and its history and equipment before trying out their skills under the guidance of a certified instructor during the program from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 4, at Blackwell Forest Preserve near Warrenville. The open house will highlight the archery range's three distinct sections: beginner, advanced and interactive. Visitors also will be able to talk to representatives from local archery groups at the event.

All ages are welcome at the open house, but adults must accompany those younger than 18. Equipment is provided, and registration is not required. For information, call Visitor Services at (630) 933-7248.

"Archery at our world-class Blackwell facility is something the entire family can enjoy," district President Joe Cantore said. "Come out and enjoy a day of recreation and relaxation in your forest preserves with a bow and arrow."

The Blackwell archery range, located off the Butterfield Road entrance, is open from one hour after sunrise until sunset, except on Wednesdays, when it opens at 10 a.m. after routine maintenance.

Visitors using the area do not need permits, but the range is for archery use only. Archers may use arrows with target heads but not broad heads. Outside of the open house, archers need to bring their own equipment.

The archery range is ADA accessible and features bow racks, quivers and targets with distances up to 90 meters.

Other upcoming archery programs include:

• Archery: Active Adults. Learn basic techniques and safety essentials of the sport from 10:30 a.m. to noon Wednesdays, Aug. 29 or Sept. 19, at Blackwell. Equipment provided. For ages 50 and older. Free. Register online at dupageforest.org or call (630) 933-7248.

• Archery: Families. Learn basic techniques and safety essentials in 90-minute classes offered at 6:30 p.m. Mondays, July 23 or Aug. 6, at Blackwell; at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 17, at Blackwell; at 5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 10, at Blackwell; and at 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 21, at Salt Creek Park. Equipment provided. For ages 8 and older; those younger than 18 must be with an adult. Free. Register online at dupageforest.org or call (630) 933-7248.

• Archery: Games. Learn the basics and then compete in a variety of games in 90-minute classes beginning at 5:30 p.m. Friday, July 27, or 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, at Churchill Woods. Equipment provided. For ages 12 and older; those younger than 18 must be with an adult. Cost: $5 per person. Register online at dupageforest.org or call (630) 933-7248.

• Archery: Intermediate. Hone your skills as you focus on form, aim and release in the 90-minute lesson offered at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 20, at Blackwell. Previous participation in a beginner archery program required. Equipment provided. For ages 8 and older; those younger than 18 must be with an adult. Cost: $10 per person. Register online at dupageforest.org or call (630) 933-7248.

For information, call (630) 933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org.