My Life in Archery

Halloween...The Power Pose

2011-10-31T09:34:00.000-07:00

Everyone needs a little R&R and what a better time then Halloween weekend. Halloween is a great time to step outside any shell you may have and just have fun. We all look silly in our costumes, so just own it. My costume this year was very last minute. I had a change in plans the day before and needed to find a new costume quick. I was fortunate to find a fun super hero esque costume with 4 hours to spare. How do you like my Teen Titans Robin? I'm practicing my Power Pose. lol

Happy Halloween everyone!

So do you think your in shape?

2011-10-27T09:02:00.000-07:00

Howdy all! (practicing my Texas welcome) :) So, do you think your in shape? Do you consider yourself an athlete? Maybe you go to the gym 5 days a week? Take cycle classes, run outdoors, Zumba? How about all you martial arts people? Are you in shape? Do me a favor all you in shape folks look up CrossFit and hit up a free class. Now tell me if you still think your in shape. :)

Crossfit is a realty check, not demoralizing but inspiring. Its a kick in the rear addicting workout that allows you to really see (and feel) your fitness level. As a wise man said, uh hem, Tyler. "this is it, this is your bottom, don't be discouraged, you will only get better and stronger from this point". This is very true and although its hard to not be at my strongest or at peak performance, I do know that I will only grow from here and must remain positive. My ego is in my back pocket and I am here to learn.

48lb bow... it's going to happen!

Team Rounds Practice at the Olympic Training Center.

2011-10-27T08:09:00.000-07:00

This video is from last winter at the OTC. We (Resident and off site athletes) were shooting a mock Team Rounds competition. Lots of fun!
* I'm second from the far end in Black and Yellow.

Strength Training has begun and I started with...

2011-10-21T13:24:00.000-07:00

Crossfit! Whew what a beat down and I'm loving every minute of it. I started with a weekend "boot camp" (3hrs Sat/Sun) to get the fundamentals of Crossfit down and jumped right into classes at 7am Monday morning. I've since gone Weds, Thurs, Fri 7am and a mobility stretching class Thursday night. Weekends off!
Why Crossfit? Strength and mid line stability, two key things in archery for success. Strength is more then weights and poundage its also mental strength. Crossfit focuses on these and then some. I know it will make me a stronger Archer. My goal is to pull a 48 lb bow by the end of 2012 season. (versus my current 41) Crossfit makes you push your boundaries of comfort, helping you to become a better, stronger athlete. It's quick (20min) VERY high intensity functional movement workouts 3 to 4 times a week.(or as many as you can handle) They also include 20-30mins of mobility stretching and range of motion work and about 15 minutes of additional barbell work (some days). That's the great thing about Crossfit, its different everyday and you never know what to expect until you show up for class, this way you cant pick and choose which work outs to attend (smart).
Here's a blurb about crossfit...
"CrossFit is a strength and conditioning that combines weightlifting, sprinting, gymnastics, powerlifting,kettlebell training, plyometrics, rowing, and medicine ball training...CrossFit athletes run, row, jump rope, climb rope and carry odd objects. They frequently move large loads quickly over short distances, and use powerlifting and Olympic weightlifting techniques. CrossFit athletes also use dumbbells, gymnastics rings, pull-up bars, kettlebells, and many bodyweight exercises" - wikipedia

Long and hard road pays off...

2011-10-19T09:21:00.000-07:00

Its been over year since my last post and things have really changed.
I stopped training full time at the OTC end of last year when a job opportunity came my way. I still continued to train, but only part time. I brought my bow with me when I traveled, which was every week and worked on bow strength exercises. I spent my entire weekends at the Olympic Training Center in SD.
I continued this pattern until the summer of 2011. At that time I dedicated more time to training at the OTC and less time traveling for work. I had Olympic Trials in only 90 days it was time to buckle down. My training was working, I shot personal bests in Vermont making it into the 1/8th round with a final ranking of 8 in Olympic Rounds. Next up was US Nationals where I ended the year with a USA National Ranking of 15 for 2011.
At the end of the summer I was still traveling for work and it appeared that this would be the case for the foreseeable future. I decided that moving would be much easier then traveling across the country each week and would allow me more time to train. I was fortunate to find a FITA field only a couple of miles from my work. So...I'm moved, training and working. I spent a week at the OTC in SD the week before Olympic Trials. The training went well and I felt ready for Trials.

Olympic Trials was held in College Station, TX September 28th, 2011. Practice day went well and I was excited to shoot Trials. Top 16 here I come! Unfortunately I started the day slow, and fell behind in the rankings. At about the half way point I started to make a come back, my shots were strong and my confidence was improving. I was jumping up the leader board like no one else and was still hopeful of making it. In the end I was just too far behind and I couldn't catch back up. It was disappointing was satisfying all at the same time. The long hard road I took for 3 years had paid off, because I tried. I gave it my all and always looked forward. I turned what seemed an impossible dream in 2008 into realty. I may not have made it past round 1 of Olympic Trials, but I made it TO Olympic Trials. Next time it will be all the way! No year off, no complaining! I'm doing this folks and chronicling along the way. I want to make a World Team, I want to shoot a World Cup and I will take this journey to 2016 Rio!

Here we go....

Thanks to The Stabilizer Company...aka B-Stinger

2010-09-16T15:15:00.000-07:00

I wanted to say thank you to the guys at the Stabilizer company for coming out awhile ago and setting me up with some new stabilizer and weights for my bow. I've shot several tournaments now with them and am quite impressed with the hold (stabilization) I'm getting in the wind. My bow just "sits" now, its a good feeling.
Thanks Again!

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow

Check out my fan page!

2010-06-13T21:39:00.001-07:00

Cassandra Wolf for 2012 Olympics!
Through friends, family, fans and coaches I know I can do this!
Fan me on Facebook for the most up to date information!

Updates!! Updates!! Updates!!

2010-01-25T08:50:00.000-08:00

Hello Folks,
Skim through my old blog posts because I have started to fill in some of the blanks. My short posts are now being expanded. I have my journal in hand and I'm transcribing as fast as I can. So get your glasses and a cup of joe and enjoy!

NEW Archery FITA Rules 2010...did you hear?

2009-12-31T15:09:00.001-08:00

MASTERS AGE GROUPS

· All Masters will shoot the same distances as the Cadets.

· Masters Men will shoot from: 70m, 60m, 50m and 30m

· Masters Women: 60m, 50m, 40m and 30m.

· If individuals wish to shoot the longer distances, or in the case of the National Target Championships, want to shoot in the elimination round, they must register as a senior archer.

JUNIOR AND CADET AGE GROUPS -
The Board of Directors decided to follow the FITA age classifications for Junior and Cadet athletes. Please note how these age groups are determined based upon date of birth.

Junior - Up to and including the year they reach the age of 20, archers are eligible to shoot in the Junior division.

Cadet - Up to and including the year of their 17th birthday, archers are eligible to shoot in the Cadet division.
Archers are eligible to compete in JOAD and earn JOAD achievement awards up to and including the year they reach of the age of 20.

SHOOTING TIME -
The time to get to the line will be reduced to 10 seconds for all rounds and the time for alternate shooting will be reduced to 20 seconds.

SCORECARDS AND RESULTS –

· Archers are responsible for the arrow value, the total sum, the 10s and the Xs.

· Archers will have a maximum of one hour from the end of shooting to turn in their completed scorecard.

· Archers will receive a zero if ANY part of the scorecard is found to be inaccurate.

· Results are deemed official upon the presentation of the awards.

In the case of the Indoor Nationals, regional results ARE OFFICIAL upon the announcement of the regional results.
No changes will be made to the results once they are submitted to the National Office to be combined for the National Indoor Championships.

AWARDS - NATIONAL EVENTS
Awards will be distributed at national events based on the number of paid participants in the division as of the deadline for entry date, using the following awards structure:

Less than 5 participants: 1st place only.
5-8 participants: 1st and 2nd place only.
9 or more: 1st, 2nd and 3rd places.

With the addition of more events to the USAT program, it is essential to adopt policies and procedures that will help to ensure consistency from event to event. This policy will assist tournament organizers to better manage their events and finances.

* All information was provided by http://www.fourteenforty.net/FITARuleChanges2010.html
Additional information can be found at http://usarchery.org/

Still on Archery Winter Break

2009-12-31T14:32:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays Everyone

2009-12-24T09:54:00.001-08:00

Progress shooting even during break

2009-12-20T21:23:00.001-08:00

1000 Arrow Challenge

2009-12-16T09:05:00.000-08:00

Completed!!! Wow, what a great experience. I came into the challenge excited and ready to accomplish the task at hand. I believe I paced myself just right finishing 1000 arrows in 6hrs 12 mins and guess what I didn't stop there, I wasnt as sore as I thought I might be, I actually felt decent, so I decided to keep shooting, despite the fact that it had just started to rain. I shot another 100 arrows, finishing with 1100 arrows in 6hrs 54mins!! Wahoo, done. Coach Lee and I are to believe that my endurance was because of the BEST method technique being followed during the duration of the challenge. There is a video coming soon, as soon as I get it I will post it.
I have lots to update everyone on from the last 10 weeks, I won't leave out any details, there all written down I just need to transfer them online when I find the time.
Stay tuned!!

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Today I will focus on managing 1 task at a time.

Time to tune the Bow again...

2009-12-07T12:42:00.001-08:00

Interested in Melaleuca?

2009-11-24T22:23:00.000-08:00

Love there products! Interested? Check out the site...http://content.melaleuca.com/Introduction/

A couple weeks ago my neighbor introduced me to a company that he works for that sells "Wellness Products" for less then regular household, personal, bath and body, vitamins, etc then the leading grocery stores do. (makes $$)
There slogan is something like "better products at a better value that are good for the environment".
That being said, in my spare time (ha, what time!) I'm doing my best to introduce people to the company and there products. (which i love, so far)
In return, for every person who purchases products I get a 7% commission on what they order every month and if I refer 20 people I get 20%.I also get a commission for each new customer. (same applies to customer, if you refer someone you also get same commission and I also get commission on them)
I can email you a couple of docs that provide more info on products and savings and I can send a catalog so you can flip through to see if you want to become a Preferred Customer. (I personally prefer looking online, but you cant browse the website unless your a customer)

This is definitely out in left field for me in comfort zone, but I really believe in the products and the business, my mom and boyfriend and neighbors have all started buying and saving not only there bank account, but the environment.

You can order each month from a catalog and call in an order, or go Online and order through there website each month. Either way items are delivered to your door in 2-3 days.

Oh yeah,there are"Loyalty Shopping dollars" after your first month, for the next 5 months, each month you get $20 in Free products to choose, if you spend 35 points (around $45) that month.
Their is so much more, from 10% cash back on your cell phone bill each month and up to 15% cash back for purchases at online retailers such as Target, Kohls, Macys, Best Buy, etc.

I could go on and on, if you want more info, email me, I'd be glad to fill you in.

Recurve Archery at the Olympic Training Center

2009-11-14T19:43:00.000-08:00

Wow has it been way to long since I last posted online. This must shed some light onto my intensive training since I was accepted to shoot at the OTC.
Please stay tuned, I promise to fill in the blanks shortly. You see, I took my blog sort of off line, all my comments, training info, etc have been on paper, so I have the info, I just need to share it.

Is 3 the lucky number?

2009-10-28T12:17:00.001-07:00

3 is the lucky number!!! It took 3 weeks to regain strength and technical skills, the same it took before my break. Wahoo! Finally!!

A Day in the Life for this USA Recurve Archer

2009-10-21T22:38:00.001-07:00

What are my days like?

Well the past couple of weeks have looked like this...
Training at the OTC and at home 6 days a week.
I start the morning off 3 days a week with a light jog and everyday with 15mins of stretching and light bow work.
I set an objective for each day and follow up with a goal statement after training.
My focus has been building strength and technique.
I have been shooting an average of 320 arrows a day.
Plus 30-40 mins of SPT's 4 days a week.
30 Form master or Bow Drops
I shoot LOTS and LOTS of blank bale everyday, every morning, every afternoon and at the end of each training session.
In the middle of my training I will shoot 30m Blank bale, to get comfortable again with distance.
I have been sore lately, especially my left shoulder. This is in part to weakness an sloppy form while gaining strength again.
I've been watching my shoulder alignment, and my string hand.
I recently changed thumb position on my string hand, its tough, but I'm sticking it out. (per Coach Guy's orders)
How can I forget the sore back...my scapula is sooo sore, my right tricep is none to happy either, but my back, uh...It will pass, I know this, just need to continue to build strength.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow...
Today I focused on my shoulder alignment

The muscles I never knew I had...

2009-10-19T14:58:00.000-07:00

This week in Training - Oct

2009-10-13T22:02:00.001-07:00

It's OFFICIAL Training at the Olympic Training Center

2009-10-09T15:26:00.000-07:00

As previously mentioned I qualified this year for Top 20 (#17) in the USA for Woman's Olympic Recurve.
After qualifying I applied to shoot at the Olympic Training Center as an "Official Athlete" with aspirations of making it to the 2012 Olympics in London. I was APPROVED on October 5th and started my new training the next day. Can you believe it, WOW!!!
This feat is amazing, my journey thus far has been short, and to think that I have made it this far is unbelievable. I've seen how much hard work the Resident Athletes have put into there 10+ years of training. Then there's me, I picked up a recurve bow for the first time in my life 1 year ago. Nobody and I mean Nobody can diminish the efforts or time spent of anyone else in this sport. Archery is difficult, more then difficult it's a LOT of hard work, sore muscles and even frustration. Had it not been for the Coaching staff at the Road Runner Archery Club, especially Coach Kisik Lee I would never have progressed so quickly. I still have a lot of work to be able to qualify for the Olympics in 2012, but I promise I will give my All to be my All.
I hope everyone understands that the privilege I hold I will cherish and embrace with all my being.
Thank you!

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow

Back in town and Ready to Shoot

2009-10-05T14:32:00.001-07:00

Two Week Break

2009-09-22T09:34:00.000-07:00

I will be taking a 2 week break starting tomorrow. I start training full swing, full time for next season on October 5th and can't wait. Although I enjoy the idea of a break, the new training schedule is posed to be a new and exciting experience for me. I am unable to provide further details at this time, but as soon as I am able to share I definitely will!!

Continue Training at the OTC...

2009-09-16T10:27:00.001-07:00

Continue Training at the OTC and then some...

2009-09-09T13:06:00.000-07:00

I have been working hard to master the BEST Method, both at home and at the OTC.
Since returning from Nationals, I have only shot Blank Bail. No target shooting. For the first time I'm really starting to get a feel for my form and for the coaches to agree that its right.
I want to make sure this year that I'm shooting BEST Method, not shooting just the target. Although I needed the scores last season to qualify for this upcoming season, I need to make sure that I'm shooting good form this year. The scores will come with time, something I have bought myself.

*Update! No New Archery News...hmm...is that an update?

2009-08-31T10:55:00.000-07:00

Eeek...Sorry No News Yet! Maybe I was too presumptuous last week in making an announcement about news "COMING SOON" but there is News coming soon, however soon has become relative :) Stay Tuned, I will Post as SOON as I know!

UPDATE! Final USA Archery Results in...

2009-08-27T08:27:00.001-07:00

I am Officially ranked* 17th for Woman's Recurve Archery in the USA.
WAHOO!!!
Also...stay tuned for exciting NEWS to come!!!! I'm hoping to have News by tomorrow to share with the world :)

"The "rolling ranking average" is the primary ranking that is used by USA Archery and the U.S. Olympic Committee to determine the status of recurve archers in the United States. It determines who is eligible to receive stipends, attend Grand Prix events, receive training support (Gold Track camps, Resident Athlete Program eligibility, and Olympic Training Center privileges), and eligibility for Elite Athlete Health Insurance."

New Pictures and Video - You Tube -

2009-08-25T10:23:00.000-07:00

I've posted a couple of pics to the right in my slide show and a newer video on You Tube.
This is by no means Excellent form in this Video, I was practicing... I think it's only fair to show both the good, the bad and the ugly :)
This video was about 5 weeks ago! It's Me!

STAY TUNED!!! New Exciting News is coming!!!

2009-08-25T09:57:00.000-07:00

I can't tell you yet, because I don't want to be too presumptuous, but something New and exciting is in the works.

IT's Official Top 20 USA

2009-08-17T16:06:00.000-07:00

It's Official I'm ranked number 18 in the USA for Women's Recurve Archery - Olympic Rounds.
WAHOO!!! I met my goal for this year. I don't even know if words can describe my elation at this moment.
I picked up a bow for the first time just 11 months ago and now I'm in the Top 20. Wow! I can't wait to see what the future holds. Kind of cliche, but not even the sky's the limit.
Here is a link to the stats on the Olympic Website go to Rolling Rank then Female Senior Recurve http://usarchery.org/news/article/10551 . or http://www.thearcher.com/usarchery/rollingranking/display/displayList.cfm

Personal Best at Nationals

2009-08-07T06:14:00.001-07:00

I shot a personal best at 50m and 30m the day before yesterday a 605. With overcast skies and light drizzle.
Yesterday however was a little rough at 70m's I had 3 really rough ends. I ended my FITA with a 1118, only 8 points off my high score. I was really hoping to continue shooting well and shoot an 1150+
Today's a new day and I'm shooting 50m and 30m again this afternoon.
The weather yesterday was very nice 80 ish and sunny with light winds.
Today is about the same.
Keep you all posted.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Today I will focus on Flow and Focus. :)

Target Nationals Rain

2009-08-04T10:54:00.001-07:00

Our fist day long distance FITA is canceled today due to severe lightening and thunderstorms.
Too bad...cross your fingers that its not raining tomorrow early am. I'm expected to shoot at 8am.

Practice at Target Nationals Ohio

2009-08-03T10:50:00.001-07:00

Working hard to strengthen my shot and keep a good strong bow arm.
I shot the practice field on Saturday, Sunday and today during official practice. The weather was good, a little windy, but nothing I can't handle after shooting at the OTC for 10 months.

There are around 700+ people shooting in this tournament. Male/Female - Compound/Recurve/Barebow/CrossBow - Master/Senior/Junior/Cadet/Cub

Here's my schedule
Tuesday FITA 70 and 60 meters at 1pm
Wednesday FITA 50 and 30 meters at 8am
Thursday FITA 70 and 60 meters at 8am
Friday FITA 50 and 30 meters at 1pm
Saturday OR Rounds (US Open)

We have Thunderstorms scheduled for Tues-Friday...eek
In the afternoons the temperature should be low 80's-high 70's, however the mornings will be chilly at 60 degrees (during rain)

So, everyone who knows me and all those who dont, wish me luck everyday, but especially Saturday. Although shooting a high FITA would be great and feel great, my goal for this years shooting is to rank Top 20 in the USA for Olympic Rounds. Currently I am 32nd in the USA, after this tournament I can squeeze myself into Top 20 (17-18th) if I shoot a 90/120 plus.
I can do this. I want to do this. I will do this.

Focus Today...Suceed Tomorrow

Taget Nationals

2009-07-27T09:43:00.000-07:00

Practice, Practice, Practice...
Practice at the OTC went well yesterday. Coach Lee helped to tune my bow yesterday. I needed to get new sight settings after that. I got my 30 and 50 (shot Great at 50) will get the rest of my markers on Thursday. In the mean time I will shoot blank bail and 20 meters.

Getting Ready for Nationals In Ohio

2009-07-25T16:42:00.001-07:00

UHHH...so tough sometimes...
I'm trying really hard...maybe too hard...Archery is so much fun, but it can also be frustrating.
I will do this, I know I can do it.
I will continue to focus on my dream... Top 20 here I come.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Tomorrow I will focus on my hand position on the string. Top finger.

Getting Ready For Outdoor Nationals

2009-07-14T09:40:00.001-07:00

I have less then 3 weeks until Outdoor Nationals and I'm making changes once again.
Its the ever changing form...
How I slip into bad form, I just don't know...

Fantastic Weekend at the OTC

2009-07-07T08:37:00.000-07:00

I had a slow start this weekend, but by the end things really started to come together.
I shot a personal best all day at 70m (Olympic Distance). The sun was hot, the breeze was strong and I shot good strong shots 99% of the day. Coach Park (Mrs. Lee) noted my use of Back tension during my shot cycle. Wahoo... about time I used the proper form, BEST method.
I will continue to work on my form and my follow through. I have a tendency to watch the arrow fly instead of maintaining my focus on the target. Oops, need to work on that more. :)
I have a couple pictures, I will share them later today.

Update: I'm shooting the California State Games on July 18th - FITA no OR's. This particular tournament is suppose to be an "amateur Olympic Experience" There is going to be an athlete parade at Qualcomm Stadium (Where SD Chargers Play) the Friday before. Should be interesting, I dont have any figures yet on how many athletes are participating, but it sounds like a hoopla of a production...we shall see... Here is a link to the Schedule http://www.calstategames.org/s-summereventsched.html

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Today I will focus on Loading.

HOYT GMX

2009-07-02T20:32:00.001-07:00

Wahoo! I got my new bow today. I'm so excited, its so beautiful. Candy Apple Red.
This is Hoyt's newest bow, the same one the Resident Athletes are shooting with right now.
I started tuning this afternoon at the Olympic training Center (Thanks Schardt) It looks like my current A/C/E's might be a little weak, but more bow time will tell me if that is truly the case.
With a new bow comes a new grip, which takes some getting used to.
I'll do my best to provide some updates on Sunday.
I need to master the GMX, ASAP so I will be ready for Nationals in August.

What happens in Long Beach...

2009-06-24T09:16:00.001-07:00

Stays in Long Beach... :)
Good thing this wasn't an OR Tournament...eek...
Form was like a robot and didn't click. Enough said about that event. Oh, except the Food was super fantastic. I brought Veggie Dogs and carrots and ended up eating Korean Salad one day and Hand Rolled Sushi the next, YUM. Thanks to the parents from LA of the Road Runner Archery Club!!
I need to find a better more natural way to get to the end result of back tension.
I tried a more fluid motion yesterday at 15m and it felt pretty good.
Look forward to trying it out at the OTC on Thursday.

Focus today...Succeed Tomorrow

Prepping for Cal State Championships this weekend

2009-06-18T14:31:00.000-07:00

Time to really shoot well, using my "new" form.
Maintain back tension is key!!

Loose Ends

2009-06-14T21:48:00.001-07:00

Things are finally starting to come together.
After returning from Gold Cup 2 weeks ago I had a form over haul it seemed. I lost back tension during anchor, in turn shooting a week shot with fingers instead of back.
It was tough, I have to admit, to change my process after doing so well in NJ. But I will always listen to the coach, no matter what. I bared it all, sometimes barley. I shot blank bail for a week straight even at the Olympic Training Center. I tried a couple times last Sunday to shoot distance, but it was awful, haha... I went back to blank bail after 2 ends.
This past Thursday was still tough, but I did what I had to do and came prepared to get it right on Saturday. And, you know what, I think I did. I got a compliment from Coach Guy that really went a long ways. He's tough in practice, so I took his words well. Thanks.
With some renewed spirit on Saturday, by the time Sunday Shooting rolled around I was ready to kill it at 70m. I would say I did a pretty good job, averaging 45-50. Not to shabby my first time shooting 70m with new form. It will all come together soon enough, I can already tell.
I must, I must maintain back tension.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow

Back at the OTC after Gold Cup

2009-06-01T15:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my first day back at the Olympic Training Center since shooting the Gold Cup in New Jersey. I have to admit I felt a little rusty. Sure, I did some SPT's while not shooting last week, but I'm not sure how much it helped, except for helping me to maintain my strength.
I wouldn't say I felt off yesterday, in fact I shot my average, but I don't want to shoot my average. I want to be hot, on fire, shooting better then average.
Coach Lee, the coaching staff and the RA's will be back at the Road Runner Club on Thursday, I look forward to then. There guidence goes a lot farther then my own.
Until then I will continue to shoot blank bail in the garage.

Schedule Today

Shoot Blank Bail 2 hours
Carido

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow

Olympic Rounds at Gold Cup

2009-05-28T08:59:00.001-07:00

OR's went well. I was crossing my fingers for a 90, but shot an 83, a personal best in a tournament.
After reviewing footage of my OR match I now see why I didn't shoot the 90. No worries, I'm still learning and will only grow from these experiences. I shot against the #8 ranked female recurve archer K. Granville. I'm working on compressing the video footage so I can share it online.

Records fall at New Jersey Gold Cup

2009-05-23T17:49:00.000-07:00

Okay...so maybe field records weren't broken, but I broke my own record. I shot an 1125! Wahoo! The day didn't start so well, I shot 35 pts down/off my best score at 70m's. I had a lot of ground to make up and boy did I. I shot a personal best at 60m, 50m and 30m. Yeah so excited.
The field conditions were good. Sun, light wind and mid 70's. This year was the largest turn out (so I was told) there were 202 Archers Compound and Recurve Men/Women.
Tomorrow is suppose to be simialar weather for OR rounds. Everyone cross your fingers for me.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow

Practice for New Jersey Gold Cup

2009-05-17T11:14:00.000-07:00

Practice!

Groove is coming back

2009-05-13T17:02:00.000-07:00

Wahoo! Just a little shout out that I feel like my groove is coming back. I was a little off my game the last week with the bow weight increase, but now I feel everything is coming together. Whew. Makes shooting that much more fun. Heading early to the OTC tomorrow to get some extra shooting time in. ttyl

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Today I will focus on my release hand.

First Place - 20m Saturday May 9th at OTC

2009-05-11T10:13:00.000-07:00

I took first place this past weekend at the Olympic Training Center, Road Runner Archery Tournament. I win is a win, right...no, I don't think so in this case. I won, yes, but not the way I wanted to. I shot a 679/720, but this same distance 2months ago I shot a 696/720. I was completely off my game this weekend, both mental and physical.
I can give you all the excuses, would've, should of, could of out there, but it wont change the outcome. Just for the heck of it I'll list a few :) I went up in bow weight by 1.25lbs last week. My focus was on how heavy the bow was and how I couldn't pull the string back (very bad mental game) I know better then this, I know not to think like this, but in all honesty the environment was not conducive to this. I was incredibly starved due to the late start-11am and late finish-3:30pm. Ahh, you know what...I was going to continue on, but this is not productive. Instead I will suck it up to a learning experience and make sure that regardless of my situation, bow weight or surroundings I will shoot my best.
okay...all done...thanks for reading.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow

How does this athlete support her dreams

2009-05-07T10:02:00.001-07:00

As some of you may know I am no longer working. I am dedicating this 2009 year to Archery in hopes of making Top 20 in the USA this year. Most of my support is coming from savings and investments and the tightening of the belt by my boyfriend and I.
Awhile ago I took a trip to Singapore where I fell in love with the local goods. I loved them so much I purchased tons and tons of items in hopes of sharing (selling) them with others in the United States. I dragged my feet getting started and before I knew it my former life as an IT Project Manager took over. Well the day has come for me to post these items online to share with everyone. I'm working to post all my items on eBay in between practice and tournaments, workouts and sleep.
If your interested in helping to support this Archer in her dream of becoming an Olympian please see my eBay items at http://store.auctiva.com/dedacated

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow

Practice Practice Practice

2009-05-04T09:54:00.001-07:00

I've upped my draw weight to 35lbs this weekend. Yeah! Well sort of yeah, its tough stuff. Its going to take a fare amount of additional practice to be strong for my next shoot in New Jersey, May 21st. The nice thing is that I have 3 weeks between tournaments this time, allowing for lots of practice time. I'm down to 2wks and 4 days and I can already see a spec of progress :)
I've upped my workouts to help build strength as well. Below is my schedule

Sunday:
Mid Morning: SPT Strength - stretch band over bow to increase bow weight even more. Draw bow and hold for 20 seconds at anchor/transfer. Repeat 10 times
Noon- Shoot blank bale 48 arrows
Afternoon- Shoot 7oms 96 arrows
Evening- Gym - 40 mins high intensity cardio
A good nights sleep :)

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow

Wind! awe come on....

2009-04-26T16:38:00.001-07:00

Is anyone reading this from the College Station area of Texas? If so tell me, is it always this windy??? Its was crazy windy everyday at every part of the day, not just the afternoon.
In these winds, no one can shoot super duper fantastic scores, imho.
Grrr...My scores in Texas were less then Arizona Cup, not something I'm used to. This is the first time I did not increase my scores. Was it the wind, or is that an excuse. I really wished I could have stepped up my game while others were faltering in the wind. It is like me to shoot well and I expect to see that regardless of conditions :) . No pressure, right, lol.
So updates. I shot a 236/360 and 243/360 those numbers put me in the middle of the pack at 17th, not bad, but not good.
I shot Team Rounds with 2 Resident Athletes - 70m. We ended up with 3rd Bronze Medal, not bad I'm always happy to win medals, its nice.
So the big day has come and passed (well the shooting at least). Olympic Rounds was this morning and I put a lot of pressure on myself to shoot qualifying scores. I needed to shoot qualifying scores this tournament or I would'nt make Top 20 USA this year.
It was my time to shoot and I cant believe I'm actually saying this,but I got nervous in my legs, yep legs, my quads started to tingle and sort of shake, absoultly crazy. I dont get nervous anymore I said to myself, it didn't mater though it was there. My first 2 arrows were uck, but I pulled myself together and said to myself "you HAVE to shoot good shots here, keep your bow arm strong and follow through on that shot no matter what, you have to do this" and I DID. I didn't get a great score, but it was good enough to qualify, a 73 which is 3.4 pts higher then lowest qualifying score. This score would put me at 16 or 17 out of 20. No worries though, because in my next tournament in New Jersey I'm gonna rock a score over 80 for sure.

*I want to thank my bf for his constructive criticism he gave me yesterday. Initially I didn't totally agree, but last night it really sunk in and I appreciate and respect the opinion and truly believe it gave me the kick in the rear I needed to succeed.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Today I focused on finishing what I came here to do.

Texas Shootout 2009

2009-04-23T09:33:00.000-07:00

I'm off to Texas, Texas A&M Univ today. First time flying with my new super fantastic black Shibuya double bow case with wheels. Thanks Mom for the early birthday present, as in 6 months early :)
So, The Texas Shootout is Sponsored by Doinker and is a 70m outdoor tournament only. I will shoot the following.
Friday- Official Practice 12-5p 70m
Saturday- 70m- 72 arrows
Saturday- 70m Open Team Rounds
Sunday- 70m Olympic Rounds (Rolling Rank)

Please Please Please don't rain. There is a 30% chance of rain daily with High winds.

Because of the flight schedule I'm leaving today and returning on MOnday. I was fortunate enough to get a good deal on a flight into the local airport, so I dont have to drive 2hrs from Austin. Yeah

Bow or Arrow?

2009-04-19T22:11:00.000-07:00

The answer to this question is Bow. Why, because it is the bow's job to shoot the arrows. It is my job to shoot the bow.
I have added this to my process just this evening and saw marked improvment in my form, follow through and in turn the arrow on the target. Speaking of arrow and target..."Don't watch the arrow, maintain focus and be patient." These are words of wisdom from my favorite coach.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Tomorrow I will focus on my Lan2 during expansion. (As I always should :))

OR Rounds in Arizona

2009-04-16T10:47:00.000-07:00

Rain Rain everywhere... It was 53F and raining. I was not prepared mentally to shoot in these conditions and my scored reflected this. My Olympic Round score was not a qualifying score. I did have a bye in the 1/32 and started my shoot in the 1/16th an advantage because of my FITA score.
The next time it rains in San Diego you will find me shooting outside. I promise.

Pictures from AAE Arizona Cup 2009

2009-04-16T10:36:00.000-07:00

I've posted pics that Coach Lee took during Arizona Cup. You can find them in my slide show to the right. Check it out.

Article on USA Archery website

2009-04-10T20:23:00.001-07:00

I found an article referring to the Mexican Grand Prix Results on USA Archery. Check it out. Its in the blue on the right side of the page "USA Victorious in Mexico" you'll see a picture with the Team awards, I'm in the back. http://usarchery.org/ Also this link with more details. http://usarchery.org/news/article/10578

Excitement at Arizona Cup

2009-04-10T20:11:00.000-07:00

Have I said before how much I love shooting? only about a billion times I'm sure.
Hitting an arrow in the gold is an unbelievable feeling. I feel pretty good about my results this tournament. I scored an 1120 in the FITA, World Ranking and USAT qualifier tournament. In LA 2 weeks ago I scored a 1024, so this was a 96 point gain for me. Olympic Rounds (70m) are tomorrow I will have updates for those tomorrow/Sunday.

Arizona Cup 2009 preparation

2009-04-07T13:06:00.001-07:00

Hello All!

I've been working hard to prepare myself for AAE Cup, sponsored by Cavalier. I will be shooting a full FITA in 2 days, 1 day of Open Team Rounds and 1 day of OR Elimination Round.
To get ready, I've been focusing on SPT's Endurance, Cardio vascular exercises and mental preparation. I also upped my bow weight to 34.5lbs. I feel strong when I shoot and look forward to another outdoor tournament.
This past Sunday while practicing at the Olympic Training Center I shot a personal best at 50 and 60 meters, my best hope is that this will reflect in my score at AAE Cup. As most of you know I shot a 1024 in LA for Easton Cup. After reviewing my score card from that event and crunching some numbers I found where I can raise my score by 58 points on averages. Now, keep in mind I'm a beginner and I have no idea how hard it is to jump in scores, this is simply my logic of Archery. :)
I have to go, parting is such sweet sorrow...hehe.... I'm heading out of SD at 6am tomorrow and have a lot to prepare for.
Here's my shooting schedule.

Wednesday Afternoon
12:15p-5pm: Official Practice and Equipment Inspection

Thursday morning
8am: Official Practice
9am: 70m
11am: 60m

Friday morning
8am: Official Practice
9am: 50m
11am: 30m

Friday Afternoon
2pm: Open Team Rounds

Saturday morning
8:30am: Official Practice
9:15am: Olympic Rounds/Eliminations

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Today I will focus on form...tomorrow I will focus on driving

Succeed at 50 meters

2009-04-02T22:43:00.000-07:00

I will over come any anxiety I have of 50 meters and remember that it is my form that will carry me through not the target.

Today I focused on shooting 50m and 70m, it turned out to be an eh kind of day. Sometimes over analyzing why something is happening wont help. I just couldn't figure out where the shazam went, yep I said it, shazam. :) I will have to concur tomorrow then, but at 18m since I will be training at home.

I have a tournament at the OTC this weekend, close distance, 20m, should be fun. I will post updates on Sunday/Monday.

Perseverance is not a long race, it is many short races one after the other.

-Walter Elliott

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
(or in today's case, just relax it'll all work out)

Easton Cup went well

2009-03-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

I didn't hit arm. Okay... so I hit my arm 2 times at 50 meters, but that's it! Much Much better then my first and previous FITA in Baja. I also scored a 1024, a grand achievement to make in just under 6 months of shooting.
Everything this weekend was personal bests. I shot a 93/120 at 70 meters in the Round Robin.
I also shot an 81/120 in OR rounds.

Ready for LA Tournament

2009-03-26T09:52:00.000-07:00

I haven't hit my arm in 3 days. Victory shall be mine. lol. Okay, so maybe not victory, but I will hit my goal (pun intended) of not hitting my arm this weekend. :) Wish me luck. I will provide updates after official practice on Friday.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow

Easton Cup

2009-03-23T22:55:00.000-07:00

How did I miss blogging on the Easton Cup? My schedule has been "off" since I returned from Mexico last week.
Here it goes...the Easton Cup is this weekend in LA. I will be shooting a full FITA in 1 day and a Round Robin and Olympic Rounds on the second day. This shoot is a "practice" tournament more or less. It will provide a FITA ranking, but it will not apply for USAT or Rolling Rank which is my current goal.
Regardless of the tournament type, it will provide insight to what I will most likely score in Arizona in 2.5wks. Arizona as many of you know is a key tournament for me.

On a training note, I want to mention that I'm working very hard on not hitting my arm guard. I apparently decided to bring back this very painful issue. (I have multiple fore arm bruise to show for it). Hitting your arm guard while shooting distance, which all my upcoming shoots are, will make you miss the target.
Ahh the dreaded M word...
Its out of my vocabulary from today on out. :)

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Tomorrow I will focus on one thing and master the task.

Thankful for those around me

2009-03-20T09:07:00.000-07:00

I wanted to say thank you to the coaching staff at Road Runner Archery Club/Olympic Training Center. Your actions speak louder then words and they do not fall on deaf ears.
Your continued effort is feeding the determination inside of me to be great. I look forward to the day when I can bring you the happiness you have brought to me.

*if you read this post you HAVE to click this link for clap your hands

Back to the Olympic Training Center Today

2009-03-19T08:39:00.000-07:00

Wahoo it Road Runner Archery Club Day!

I get to shoot 70meters today and its going to be fantastic weather. Can't wait.

Mexican Grand Prix w/ a surprise at the end...

2009-03-16T09:10:00.000-07:00

Success!
Success can be viewed in many ways. I believe I succeeded in Baja this past week, regardless of the scores I put down. I shot my first FITA, my first International Tournament, my first Outdoor Tournament, Shot my first Olympic Round and shot my first Team Olympic Round ever this week. I accomplished all of this with out stress, nerves or distress. :) My mental game has come far quickly and I am very proud of myself.
I am extremely grateful to Coach Kisik Lee, Coach Guy and Mrs. Lee for coaching this week during the tournament. There words of guidance did not fall of deaf ears and I learned a lot during the past week and look forward to shooting good for them in the future.
For those of you who dont know I shot a FITA and OR this week. A FITA is 70, 60, 50, 30 meters and OR or Olympic Rounds is 70 meters, 12 arrow match. I have not shot 50, 60, 70 meters more then 5 times in my entire life, so these distances were very new to me and I LOVED it. Distance shooting is awesome, it felt so freeing, the "stress" I felt during my indoor shoots was gone (18m). It was so much fun.

Your ready for the surprise everyone? Here it is...
My schedule went like this in Mexico.
Weds- Opening Ceremony (where I got to walk in USA processional as member of USA) and Open practice
Thurs- 70 and 60 meters
Fri- 50 and 30 meters
Sat- 70 Meter OR rounds
Sun- Sunday is for Team rounds, naturally not coming into Mexico thinking i was apart of a team, but that I was shooting as me, i thought that Sunday I would just watch the RA's shoot in teams for Team USA. On Saturday night i was informed that they were going to create a 2nd USA Women's Team and that I was going to be apart of it.
GUESS WHAT!!! We took a Bronze Medal for 3rd Place in Olympic Team Rounds. Great Job Team. My first arrow was a X, and I shot the best I had shot during the entire tournament. What a great end to a wonderful week. I love shooting and cant wait to shoot again.*shout out to Kristin who rocked it this week in BAJA, she was by far the best shooter this week! Good Job Kristin, you make me want to succeed even more.
Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Today I will focus on my string hand finger position.

Wahoo Back Home!

2009-03-16T08:47:00.000-07:00

As much as I love traveling, the recent adventures in cuisine and living conditions in Tijuana, Baja Mexico have made me miss home.
I wont go into to many details but I'll list some key components of the conditions.
1. no hot water
2. no towels
3. no heat/air conditioning
4. rice and corn flakes
5. no coffee/tea
6. no recreation

Coaches, Coaches everywhere

2009-03-08T11:51:00.000-07:00

It was Jr. Dream Team Week at the OTC this past week.
During my training on Thursday and Saturday there were a slew of Coaches offering advice on how to shoot the BEST method. It's a bit overwhelming sometimes, you know, to have several different approaches or explanations on how to do something from someone your unfamiliar with and who is in fact unfamiliar with you. I am however grateful for anyone who volunteers to help others. (there are many "buts" i can add to this, but i wont) :)
Out of all the coaches I've interacted it with in Archery I would have to say that Coach Lee seem to have the approach that works best for me. Maybe I'm biased, maybe I just want him to be the best for me because i believe he is the best coach. Regardless of why or who, what's important is that I feel comfortable and trust my Coach.
Gotta run, time to head over to the OTC for one last day of distance shooting before Baja next week.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Today, again I will focus on my bow arm release.

Timing couldnt be any better...

2009-03-05T09:31:00.000-08:00

I've experienced several trials and tribulations in the recent weeks it seems, and I'm fortunate to have the strong support of my family. An indication of this support is from an email I received this morning with the following quote. Thank you, it helps.

You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face.... You must do the thing you think you cannot do.

— Eleanor Roosevelt

Field Conditions

2009-03-05T09:13:00.000-08:00

Morley Field is not an ideal place to shoot in the Winter/Spring months. With the Mexican Grand Prix next week I needed to practice distance shooting (70/60/50/30m) on days I wasn't at the OTC.
My plan after Nationals was to take Monday off and head to Morley Field in Balboa Park on Tuesday and Wednesday to practice. Well...lets just start off by saying I did end up there on Tues and Weds, but it didn't go the way I planned it...
My first 2 arrows at 70m, while trying to site in (set site pin to distance/height of target) flew over the target and into the knee and thigh height of grass/weeds, stink beetles and mice. :) I spent an hour looking for them with no luck. I decided it best to shoot 50m so I wouldn't lose anymore arrows. BIG mistake, my first arrow shot left of the target. I was DONE at that point. I looked for another 30mins before deciding to go home and return the next day with a weed whacker and rake. You see, each arrow costs around $30 and I need 6 to shoot in Mexico next week and I was down to 4, I needed those other 3 arrows. I cant believe I lost them, it never occurred to me that I wouldn't hit the target, thats not like me.
So, believe it or not on Wednesday morning I headed over to the field with my battery powered weed wacker and rack. It took me an hour of wacking and racking to find all 3 and luckily all of them in good shape.
No more Morley Field, unless its dry and barren. Ahh, how many hard lessons are there in Archery. Every week theres another big lesson learned. Life is amazing.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Today I will focus on my bow arm.

National Indoor Results

2009-03-02T08:27:00.000-08:00

I want to start off my saying I shot decent most of the tournament. However, my score does not reflect this. :) I had equipment "failure" my plunger was unscrewed by nearly 1/3inch by the time I noticed it. (time to fork out the $ for a beiter)
I was grouping high far right all day yesterday and just couldn't figure out why. It came to the point when I just knew it wasn't me, my form felt fine, sure I was a bit nervous but nothing like the first day. To say the least I was confused at the results, along with my fellow shooter Aya (thx for Tips, btw), who was mystified as to why I was shooting right, even after what appeared to be a good shot.
This was definitely a lesson for me and I'm very grateful for the hard lessons I have been learning during my first few tournaments. I will now forever check all the components of my bow before shooting, daily.
It's a sigh of relief really. I knew I was better then the arrows on the target reflected and I knew I had to just keep shooting the way I knew how. It was nice to get confirmation that it was my equipment and not me. (for those of you who aren't familiar with a plunger, I'll post a photo)

I will not shoot Tulare, CA again, the environment is not condusive to a beginner or for someone to perform at there best imo. For Nationals in 2010 I will shoot New Mexico.
I don't know how to explain the emotions that I go through during the tournament. I assume it's what most everyone goes through when there a newbie like me. If you had asked me on Saturday how I felt I would've told you it was an awful feeling. The inability to control your fear, nerves, mind or whatever it was is crazy and not something I am accustomed to. Thank goodness for Coach Mel Nichols (Pineapple Archery) who was quick to contact me after the tournament and share tools and tips that would help me un-spiral my craziness and be prepared for my mental game on Sunday. THANK YOU, I was as prepared as I knew how to be on Sunday and was 10 times better mentally because of your help.
I also want to say thank you to my mom for her encouragement on Saturday evening.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Tomorrow I will focus on 70 meters

Just in Time

2009-02-27T08:00:00.003-08:00

I figured it out just in time. Okay, let me be more clear, I didn't figure it out, Megan (RA/Coach) noted I was pinching the arrow with my middle and index finger and the sudden reason for this...my finger tab spacer screw was loose which changed the position of my spacer allowing my fingers to pinch the string. My other unknown "issue" grouping high. It turns out, thanks to Jake (RA/Coach) that although my mouth was closed, I wasn't closing my teeth. :) Silly me.
So now I've got it all figured out. hehe :) and I'm ready to be National Indoor Champion 2009. lol
I've gotta run, I have a long day and drive ahead of me. Wish me luck, my journey in Recurve Archery is going to be great. Thank you everyone at the OTC for your help.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Today I will focus on driving to my tournament.

Olympic Training Center Scores

2009-02-22T22:06:00.000-08:00

An afternoon at the OTC goes a little something like this.
Stretch
Stretch band work (mock shooting)
Shoot
Stretch

Today I shot 70m for what was probably my 10th time EVER. I surprised myself and scored decent averaging 46/60. You see I'm kind of in a weird place this week. I'm shooting 18m indoors this weekend at the National Indoor Championships. That tournament ranks me to see if I qualify for USAT 2010 (US Archery Team). Here's the kicker 9 days after that tournament I have to shoot Baja (Mexico) to see if I can qualify to shoot Olympic Rounds to then see if I am in the top 20 US Women. All of this is necessary for me to be able to shoot at the Olympic Training Center full time and to obtain sponsorship. So its imperative that I practice distance shooting outdoors. 30/50/60/70 but when that's the kicker.
My scores are where they need to be, its just so nerve wracking. Even now when I'm shooting at the OTC and multiple people come over to watch me I get nervous.
I need to work on my mental game, seriously. I need to keep my confidence high.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Tomorrow I will focus on me and not the target.

Training day at the OTC

2009-02-19T22:11:00.000-08:00

Eh. It was one of those days. I was either dead on or completly off all day. This in turn encouraged my already grumpied self. Tomorrows a new day and I can't wait to start fresh.
Everytime I pick up that bow its going to be perfect. Everytime I anchor it will be perfect. Everytime I release it will be perfect.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Tomorrow I will focus on my angular movement.

Brain waves

2009-02-16T22:54:00.000-08:00

You want to do what? ...Measure my brain waves while shooting. Amesome! I've heard about this being done for professional athletes, but me, whoa that's so cool.
A gentleman by the name of Dr. Lee and an unnamed assistant came to the Olympic Training Center to measure the brainwaves for focus and relaxation of the athletes while shooting. (Bad sentence, but too late to keep adjusting). My turn came late in the day after wading shin deep in water. Yep, water, it rains an inch in SD and the whole county floods. Okay back on topic. I had a band put on my head with attachments to my ears, forehead and back of head. It started with me seating down being asked a serious of questions, blink, deep breath, etc. Next was a focus test, I had to watch a guage on Dr Lee's laptop and make the guage needle reach 100, after a couple of attempts I succussfully held the needle at 100 for over 10secs. (Very good I hear). After this test it was onto shooting. My focus on the shot or attention on what I was doing was 100 on almost all my shots (also very good), my relaxtion was at about 60-65, which isn't too bad. The relaxtion they say comes with confidence in my ability, which will come with more mental trainig and time.
What a cool day. I feel so privilaged to be able to experience such wonderful training methods. Thank you Coach Lee for allowing me to experience this.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Tomorrow my focus will be my bow arm, again.

Tournament 1st Place

2009-02-14T19:02:00.001-08:00

Wahoo! First place is always nice, but I was most excited about my score.
I shot a 691 out of 720 at 20meters outdoors with indoor arrows :)
Check out the photo, this is my last end of the tournament. A perfect 60.
shhh...ignore the fact that it's an 80 cm target. In Vegas I was shooting a 40cm target.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Focus on Mental game, read and relax.

Shoulders Back!

2009-02-11T22:36:00.000-08:00

Shoulder back, sounds simple enough, right? Wrong! Try lifting something and not move your shoulder out of place, meaning just move your arms and oh yeah make sure that something weighs 30+lbs and only use 3 fingers.
Let me know how that goes for you. :) Welcome to Archery.

Today I shot 100 arrows in the morning and 50 in the early afternoon. In the afternoon I went to the gym for cardio. In the evening Coach Lee came by to Coach me on my form, where I shot another 50 arrows, but probably lifted the bow back 100 times.
He is so amazing, at first I may not understand exactly how to do what it is he is saying to do, but he always finds a way to explain it or to show me so I can deliver the form right. Thank you Coach Lee and Mrs Lee.

Focus today...succeed tomorrow
Tomorrow my focus will be loading and anchor.

Archery form day

2009-02-10T22:34:00.000-08:00

What a great day this turned out to be. I started the day shooting a single spot 40cm target at 10 meters as recommended by Coach Mel (Brady Ellison's orig.coach) I also took into consideration his recommendation to not aim at the yellow, but visualize and shoot the X. This was at first tough, but then made a huge diffenece and really tightend up my groups. I shot 19 x's (10m)40cm target.
Mid afternoon was a bit painful and frustrating. I couldn't quite shake it and continued to shoot bad form. I thought it would be best to take a break.
I'm honored to say the US National Olympic Head Coach, Kisik Lee and Asst. Coach came over to my house to coach me for just over an hour this evening and I can't stop thinking about it. Wow, I feel so privilaged, I just can't believe it sometimes.
Coach Lee is so good and so good at explaining things. He made several tweaks to my form and I can't wait to implement them into my daily training and SPT's.
Sometimes I want to pinch myself to see if this is all real.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Tomorrow my focus will be my bow arm.

Archery Lesson 1

2009-02-09T11:12:00.001-08:00

Shoot the correct target.

Has it been that long?

2009-02-07T23:29:00.000-08:00

Has it really been 5 days since my last post? Lots and lots of updates. I'll try to summerise the events.
My last post on Tuesday I was shooting a 268 and was thrilled to be shooting my tied personal best (recorded). On Wednesday I shot a 268, 270 and a 272!!! Can you believe it? I'm going up in score every 2 days or so. I'm so excited for Vegas.
Thursday comes and its time to drive 5hrs to Vegas (which turned into 7hr w/stops) with a fellow Road Runner Archery memeber, Ron. When I arrive in Vegas I go straight to the Casino Convention center to practice shooting.
Practice went very very well (nearly all 9 and 10's). With such a great practice and good shoots the day before I had high expectations for Vegas, even though that wasn't my intent for this tournament.
Here comes Friday...(Stay tuned)

Whoa Super Sunday

2009-02-01T21:24:00.000-08:00

May the force be with me? I'm not sure what came over me today, but I rocked it at the Olympic Training Center today. I wasn't scoring but was taking mental note of my scores each end. Jake (my coach today) and I both agree I probably shot around a 275-280. Keep in mind my highest score is a 268. Whoa, wahoo whoopee. Keepin my cool thats what I need to do.
I need to repeat today tomorrow and again the next day. Vegas is only 5 days away.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
My focus today was relaxing, with minimal effort.

Fridays challenge

2009-01-31T20:57:00.000-08:00

AHHH! It is so hard sometimes. I tried so hard, to not "try" to be so particular about my shot cycle, but I must have missed some part of the explanation of the objective along the way. It was horrible, lol... it's completely out of my character, its the exact opposite of how i approach anything and everything. I always try to do everything the best I can.
It's true though, when I first pick up the bow I shoot great, and I mean great. As time goes on and I start to tweak and nudge and move around my shots are not as good.
opps low battery catch up later...

Not try to try and relax

2009-01-29T22:34:00.000-08:00

Apparently I'm a ball of tension when I shoot with lots of other wonderful side effects. I have to admit, I'm not that surprised I do have a higher intensity resting rate then others. For those who dont know "me" in all my environments wouldn't understand/see this.
No, I'm not making any excuses. I do bring to the table a high level of intensity and high standard to every action of the shot cycle. I know I need to work on relaxing while shooting and just letting some of it come more naturally.
This is going to be my focus tomorrow I'll let everyone know how that goes.

BTW: I was so excited I forgot to blog a personal best that I shot yesterday. A 268 (w/a miss) out of 300- 18m indoor/outdoor 40cm target. The miss was a choke, the last arrow of the end. (Uh-hmm, high intensity, probably)

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
My focus today was learning everything I could from the RA's.

Monday Update

2009-01-27T20:36:00.000-08:00

I Shot a 3 spot, 10 ends of 3 arrows, 4 times. Is that confusing? I'm scoring right now to prepare for the Vegas Tournament NEXT week. I shot roughly 200 arrows including practice ends, before scoring. (I wont reveal my scores :) my form was off and until I watched some videos and really thought about it in the evening I didn't know what was "off")

Morning- SPT Endurance- ten 25 second holds with full bow (v-bars and stabilizer) and stretch band on bow (increases pull weight) then ten 30 sec hold with full bow only.
Mid-Morning- Shooting 3 spot
Lunch
Afternoon- Shooting 3 spot
Evening- 1 hr Boot Camp fitness class (legs & core) and 20 mins stair stepper.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
My focus on Monday was shooting a 3 spot*.

*that was not good for my mental game.

Trying to beat 258

2009-01-25T11:08:00.001-08:00

Well I didn't beat a 258, but I shot 2 255's with a miss (5 ring, instead of 10 ring target).
It was cold out, well San Diego cold (55F) and I pushed through it.
Oh and for the first time since scoring on a 3 spot I got 3 10's. See pic.
I was really trying to work my mental game yesterday and I'm feeling good progress.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
I will focus on being indifferent to shots scored.

Fridays strength

2009-01-23T11:59:00.000-08:00

SPT's SPT's. Must build strength!

Morning- Roadrunner Archery Club website work
Mid-Morning- 20 mins SPT Endurance
Afternoon- Shoot 150 arrows 10 meters
Late- Afternoon-Gym- Cardio and time permitting triceps
Evening- 30 mins SPT Endurance with Bow and stretch band.

Yesterday at the OTC, Jake's plan was to tune my arrows with my bow, but at my current bow weight of 33.25 lbs my arrows wont properly tune to my bow. The best solution we could come up with is to use aluminum Easton Jazz arrows. After a trial and error time period he found the best arrows for my bow weight, which has been kicked down a notch. Thanks for your help Jake.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
My focus today is to pause during setup.

Thursday Update

2009-01-22T20:25:00.000-08:00

Coming to a blog near you. :)
Videos to share and schedule updates coming soon. :)
It's Road Runner Archery Club day. Jake is going to tune my bow with my arrows to help me for my indoor shoot in Vegas.
Here's my squished Schedule for today.

Morning- Roadrunner Archery Club website work
Noon- Lunch
Afternoon- Gym- Cardio
Evening- Club shooting 18 meters- 2 hours

New Day - New Way

2009-01-21T08:30:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Wednesday Everyone.
Yesterday, was my R & R day. I shot 50 arrows to keep my muscles warm, but that was it. I didn't even hit the gym, however that wasn't the plan.
The Roadrunner Archery Club is hoping to improve there website and I volunteered to assist them in improving their site. Jake, a Resident Athlete at the Olympic Training Center has been managing the site so he came over and we set out some ideas and plans for the site.
This is what we've got so far. www.roadrunnerarchery.com

My schedule today is going to be aggressive. I must meet my potential.
Morning- 30 mins SPT Endurance
Mid-Morning- 20 arrows at 5 meters -150 arrows at 18 meters
Lunch
Noon- 50 arrows at 18 meters
Afternoon- Gym- Cardio, triceps and back/lats
Evening- Roadrunner Archery Club website work
Late Evening- SPT 20 mins Endurance

I'll update everyone later on today's progress.
Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
My focus today is setup.

Monday Determination

2009-01-19T22:45:00.000-08:00

Shoot Shoot Shoot. That was my plan. ...I succeeded!

I shot 200 arrows on Monday, quite a feat after all the shooting I did this weekend at the OTC this weekend.

Monday's Schedule
Morning- 30 mins SPT
Morning- 100 arrows at 18 meters
Lunch
Afternoon- 100 arrows at 18 meters
Afternoon- Gym, Boot Camp fitness Class-focus on shoulders and back. 20 mins Stair Climber lvl 11
Evening- R & R

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
My focus Today is picking up the pace.

Going to Vegas

2009-01-19T09:46:00.000-08:00

I've decided to shoot NFAA World Archery Festival 2009 in Vegas.
This tournament is not part of USAT rankings or US top 20 rolling rank, but will help to prepare me to shoot Nationals at the end of February.
I will be shooting 18 meters, 40cm target.

Wounds of Archery

2009-01-18T21:25:00.001-08:00

Don't hit your arm. Okay, got it! Uh, too late...Saturday was a day of whacking my arm with the bow string. It seems no matter what I tried I still hit my bow arm, and in some cases I hit my shoulder. Yeah I said Shoulder, how in the heck did I manage that? I over rotated on my extra set, rolling my shoulder in. I abated this issue by mid afternoon on Saturday, but continued to hit my arm. The bruises on my arm are with an arm guard and an ace like wrap.
I haven't done anything like this since I first started shooting in Oct 08.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
I will focus on NOT hitting my arm :)

TGIF - oh wait...

2009-01-16T21:42:00.000-08:00

Did I just post TGIF?...hahaha... I like Fridays and not for the reason everyone does I'm sure. I like Fridays because it means I'm going to be spending the next 2 days at the Olympic Training Center for Archery Training. I'm ready for the soreness Coaches, so lets make some adjustments to my form. Like past days I have several videos I could share, but I narrowed it down to 2.
This was my schedule today.
Morning- Floor stretching including legs and upper body.
Mid- Morning- 70 arrows at 18 meters outdoors (good results on the target, hopefully the form was good) *see pic
Early Afternoon- Tournament Research and Mental Challanges Research
Afternoon- Gym including Cardio, mat work for abs, core, triceps, traps and a bit of lats
Evening- 40 arrows at 5 meters. 25 mins SPT Endurance, 30 sec hold

I probably wont post tomorrow, but will do my best to give everyone an update on Sunday.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Today my focus was Right hand position on Setup and Set

Club Day

2009-01-15T08:10:00.000-08:00

Shooting at the Olympic Training Center is here again. This week has really flown by.
In the past, after Sundays Club day I'm itching to shoot again at the OTC the next day, but we've been having such excellent weather in San Diego I've been out of the garage. Its been 85 and even hotter (no humidity) for over a week now and I've been shooting outside since Sunday. I have videos I will upload later this morning so you can see where I'm shooting and our brilliant sunshine.
Below is my schedule for today.
Morning - SPT Endurance 25 mins
Mid-Morning- 50 arrows at 5 meters
Afternoon- 50 arrows at 5 meters
Exercise- 2.25 mile run outdoors
Afternoon- Shooting at OTC - 100-150 arrows

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Today My focus is shoulder position and back tension

Wednesday

2009-01-14T20:32:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Tuesday was my rest and recovery day. In the morning I shot 2 ends of 10 and did Cardio at the gym and 2 walks w/ the dogs. * Update...I forgot I shot at night for a couple of ends. After reviewing the videos below I realize I was not showing a set or extra set.

Today was a good day. My form is becoming more consistent day by day. My schedule was a little out of wack today. I went to do my SPT's in the garage this morning and was just too sore to hold the bow for more then 15-20 seconds, so I took a break and returned an hour later to continue my training. You see, on Monday's I take this Boot Camp fitness classes that kicks everyone's rear. Most participants in the class give up at one station or another at least 5 times and some even leave early. I wont give up, I can be beat red, grunting, winded, and literally crawling to the next station (really, I've done it before) and I will finish it. I will always finish it and I will always do more then the person next to me. (except this one chick who schools me in push ups)

Schedule Today
Morning- 15 minutes of stretching
Mid-Morning- 125 arrows
Exercise- Abs and Back/lats - 40 mins of Endurance High intensity Cardio
Evening- 49 arrows and 20 mins of Endurance SPT

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
Today my focus is my bow arm rotation.

Monday Monday Monday

2009-01-12T09:39:00.000-08:00

Start the morning off with Endurance SPT's with the proper full loading for 25 mins.
Morning- Shoot form until lunch at 18 meters
Afternoon- Run outdoors for 30 mins
Late Afternoon- 1 hr boot camp class, Circuit weight training
Evening- 50 arrows and 30 mins SPT Power and Strength. "Draw from the Set-Up to the Holding position; Holding must include Transfer and Loading like in a normal shot. Hold for 3 - 5 seconds and let down, but only as far down as the Set-up, then draw straight back to the anchor position and, again, include Transfer and Loading. Do this 5 -12 times for 3 - 5 sets, depending on current strength. Rest period between sets 3 - 5 minutes - Ensure that proper alignment and form is maintained" http://kslinternationalarchery.com/Training/SPTs/SPTs.htm l

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
My focus today is my release.

* I notice my head pulling back a little when I'm expanding. I also notice I "expand" by moving my elbow up instead of back, at least once. I worked on correcting these after I reviewed these videos. I also noticed if I hold my right pinkie finger in a particular position it hits my jugular vain, which tells me I've loaded properly (i hope, coaches will need to review first)
Camera is charging I will have more vids tomorrow showing these corrections from 3 angles.

Training this Weekend at Road Runner Archery

2009-01-11T08:58:00.000-08:00

This weekend was very productive. I spent 3/4 of Saturday working on Form and technique with a light bow and stretch band. By the time I was ready to practice technique on my bow it felt so heavy that I couldn't get the proper form and control at that weight. We knocked the poundage to 31 from 33.5, at that point I was able to pull it back, but only with significant breaks in between.

On Sunday I started the morning off with a 2 hour, maybe 8 mile hike up/down the mountain behind Mountain Hawk Park. After the hike I headed to Archery. Apparently a good nights rest under my belt helped because I was able to pull my bow back with out much issue that afternoon. My focus wasn't spot on, mostly in part to the Chargers Playoff game being on the radio next to me :). I don't think some of the coaches liked the distraction that brought about. I will have to buckle down this week and really work on getting a feel for the technique and I should have it under control soon enough.

Coach Guy took some good before and after video this weekend of my shoulder/back tension position and release I will post them shortly.

Pictures from Hike.

Focus today...Succeed Tomorrow
My focus today is my form with a release that shows conviction. :)

Friday - The Day After Yesterday

2009-01-09T16:49:00.000-08:00

The effects of shooting extra yesterday are felt today. :)
Not in a bad way or an ouch I want to complain sorta way, but a, hey I can really identify muscles in my shoulders and back that I don't normally.
My schedule today was spread out a bit.

Morning- SPT 30 mins with full loading (I wasn't loading enough b4)
Morning- 100 arrows, 10 ends of 10. I don't think I physically enjoy ends of 10 as much as ends of 7 or 8. It makes a difference imo on your strength in those last 2-3 shots.
Afternoon- 50 arrows and 15 minutes of deep stretching in shoulders, back and core.
Mid-Afternoon- Gym for Cardio and Shoulders. I want stronger shoulders for sure.

I took some videos of my scapula movement. After review they appear okay, but I would like to see my right scapula go lower. I will post them shortly.

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
*Today my focus is loading

First Day back at Road Runner Archery

2009-01-08T20:27:00.000-08:00

It's hard to put into words how I felt today. I was counting down the hours (subtly of course). Sometimes I feel silly, it's like I was blindsided, I never saw this coming, Archery.
I haven't felt a passion for something like this since I first started my career in technology. For the last 5yrs I've been living my life without a "drive", but I didn't know or feel like I was missing anything. Then Archery came along and I have a drive now, something I didn't expect, something I wasn't looking for. I think Archery fills a gap for me that most of us don't know exists until we discover that one thing that really, really drives us to succeed in life.
I don't know how else to say it, maybe my point isn't coming across. What I do know is that I feel a fire inside that I don't want to extinguish. I hope everyone feels this way about something in there life. I'm grateful and thankful for the opportunity to experience hope.

*Okay, off the mushy topic
Thank you TyTy for staying late and fletching my arrows.
My first day back at RAC shooting wasnt a smooth as I was envisioning, but was great non the less. As it turns out I wasn't loading enough during my break (4wk) practices. So I spent the greater part of club time working on loading. This is exactly the type of stuff I like to learn while at the OTC, this will give me the opportunity to work this into my home practice schedule.

So, back to the grind tomorrow. I will do 30 mins of Endurance SPT tonight, using the correct loading. :) Thanks Tyler S. for pointing that out. I know I can kick the potential habit.

Thursday - Club Day

2009-01-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

Wahoo, Today's the day! Back to the OTC this afternoon for Road Runner Archery Club Practice.
I'm going to condense my schedule this morning to make sure I'm ready to impress this afternoon.
I'm not sure what the pace is going to be at the Club today, but I will do my best to practice patience. There is no rush.
Morning- 15mins of Endurance SPT and stretching
Mid-morning- 105 arrows (15 ends)
Lunch
Early Afternoon- Gym for triceps and short Cardio
And then off to the OTC for Club Practice!
No Videos today, but I will have the guys take some on Saturday.
:)

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
*My focus today is on my shot cycle not the target.

Wednesday's Schedule

2009-01-07T16:31:00.000-08:00

2 more days until I return to shooting at the OTC!!!
I'm working really hard to impress the coaches on my return tomorrow. Hopefully they can see that I've improved in strength and control. Well, at least it feels that way...
Today's Schedule has gone like this so far.
Morning- Endurance SPT for 30 mins
Mid-morning- 5 ends of 8 and 10 ends of 7 (110 arrows) this was not the plan, but i split an arrow today from what I believe to be from too much contact with the other arrows (aka I group too well) :) so I switched from shooting 8 per end to 7.
Afternoon- Cardio, normally I would do abs/core today, but I fell 6ft off a counter and injured my tail bone a bit. ouch. So, no abs for me.
Evening- 70 arrows and 30 mins of Endurance SPT

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
*My focus today was my release. Follow the jaw line and keep hand position the same.

Week 4 of shooting Oct 25 2008

2009-01-07T15:16:00.000-08:00

I found this video and had to share. I can see a big difference between this video and my newer ones, can you? This was the first day I got the new bow from the club. Thanks Coach Guy, Heather and TyTy! I went from shooting 20lbs with a slight injury in my bicep to 28.5lbs in 1 day :) You can tell from my quick setup and pull back that its a little heavy.
In both videos I'm shooting 30 meters (98.4 feet)

Tuesday Shooting

2009-01-06T15:58:00.000-08:00

I want to start off by thanking Aye for encouraging me go the extra mile in my practice yesterday. He encouraged me to do 5 sets last night instead of 4 and 35mins of SPT's instead of 30. Every extra push is appreciated imo.
Today's practice schedule is very similar to yesterday.
Morning - SPT for 30 minutes
Mid-Morning - 105 arrows at 5 meters in my garage.
*I kept hitting my bow arm with the string, owe, for those of you who don't know getting hit with the string on the arm is very painful. I decided to place blame on my sweatshirt, so I removed it and it seemed to reduce the amount of times I hit my arm. Placebo affect, who knows...
Afternoon- Off to REI to find tight fitting cold weather gear. Yes, it does get "cold" and windy in San Diego. Then to the gym for Triceps, Back and Cardio.
Evening- 6 ends are my goal with another 30 mins of SPT's.

Below is a video of my late night shooting yesterday. Enjoy the penguins!

Focus Today...Succeed Tomorrow
*Today my focus was to not drop my bow arm until after the full shot cycle was complete.