NEWBERRY, Florida - The second event of the 2017 United States Archery Team event series began today with official practice for the Easton Foundations' Gator Cup. With record shattering participation of over 500 archers, sunny skies and calm winds, the Gator Cup promises to be a great event. For the senior and junior recurve and compound archers, qualification tomorrow also counts towards the World Archery Championships - U.S. Team Trials, and for compound archers, also the World Games - U.S. Team Trials.
Tournament Director Eric Blalock of the Easton Newberry Sports Complex shared: "On behalf of the Easton Foundations Staff and volunteers, we would like to welcome you to the 8th annual Easton Foundations Gator Cup. Each year, the event continues to grow and we would like to thank all archers and fans for your support as we work to further the sport of archers and bridge the gap between first experience and elite experience."
Erika Jones (Owasso, Oklahoma) is leading the compound women's division after the first stage of the Trials and is looking forward to a rain and wind-free competition. "I'm feeling good, I changed a few things in my equipment and my form since Arizona Cup," commented Jones. "I'm just focusing on staying strong on my back half, making good shots and hoping they go where I aim them. That's the main goal; if I'm not aiming well I can't expect the shots to go well, so I'm working on making good shots."
In addition to top tier able-bodied competitors, there are also archery legends competing in the masters' division, new faces in the cadet brackets, and local superstars, Florida's own World Champion Jerry Shields and Paralympic Champion Andre Shelby will be shooting in the Para divisions.
Competition begins tomorrow with qualification for all divisions. Live scoring will be available here. For more, follow USA Archery on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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