The 4th Annual S3DA Western National Outdoor Target Championship and the 5th Annual S3DA Western National 3D Championship concluded with remarkable success, bringing nearly 200 participants together at two breathtaking Montana venues from July 24th – 27th, 2025. Archers from 21 S3DA teams across 10 states competed for top honors, showcasing their dedication, focus, and skill.
The championships kicked off with the Outdoor Target event at the Siebel Soccer Complex in Helena. The morning started with bright skies and calm winds, setting the stage for the young athletes to hone their craft during practice. However, as the day progressed, a strong wind rolled in, making the competition even more intense and exciting. It was truly a test of skill and mental toughness as the challenging weather conditions kept everyone on their toes.
S3DA Executive Director, Holly Helton, expressed her excitement: “It was exhilarating seeing the focus each archer demonstrated, as well as the culmination of their time and effort throughout the season concentrated into 72 arrows and then elimination round matches. Archery is truly an exceptional sport that teaches young people important life skills and I’m continually amazed at the skill level S3DA archers display. Western S3DA has been growing steadily, and we are thrilled with the outcome of the 2025 S3DA Western National Championships. The atmosphere, work ethic, and attention to detail exhibited by archers, parents, coaches, and coordinators was unrivaled. Montana S3DA was a great host site for these events, and we look forward to seeing what the West holds for 2026.”
The event transitioned smoothly to the 3D Championship, which was held at the Great Divide Ski Area in nearby Marysville. With its sprawling mountain views, it proved to be the perfect backdrop for a thrilling 3D archery competition. Archers navigated a series of realistic animal targets nestled in the rugged terrain, with dramatic uphill and downhill shots, further pushing their skills and abilities. Weather played a significant role in the 3D event as well with strong winds and lightning moving in during the Sunday afternoon shootdowns. After a brief delay, shootdowns were able to conclude. However, the awards ceremony was abbreviated for the safety of all.
Montana S3DA State Coordinator, Jeremy Garness, conveyed his appreciation: “We are thankful S3DA chose Montana as the site of the 2025 Western National Championships. We felt we could provide an incredible venue and tournament experience for archers across the western United States. With the support and dedication of the Montana S3DA Board of Directors, Montana Coaches and families, we were able to showcase Montana in a positive light despite the weather. We’d also like to give a shoutout to our event sponsors, Capital Sports – Helena, and Scheels – Great Falls, Judnich Law, and the Big Sky Chapter of Dallas Safari Club. It’s only with their incredible collaboration that we can make events like this possible in Montana.”
Both events proved to be a celebration of dedication, teamwork, and the spirit of archery, with all competitors displaying exceptional sportsmanship and camaraderie. The championships provided a unique opportunity for archers to compete, connect, and grow within the larger S3DA community. With this year’s championship marking another milestone in S3DA’s success, the organization looks ahead to continued growth in the West. S3DA is already eager to see what next year’s event calendar entails.