ITAA Athlete Spotlight – Olivia Artz

Welcome to the ITAA Athlete Spotlight!

Every few months, we highlight a fellow ITAA member.  Whether they have performed well in a competition, supported the organization, or are just really, really good looking, this is a member you should get to know.

For our first spotlight in 2017, we’ve got Oliva Artz.  A proud member of Chicago Bow Hunters (CBH) JOAD, Olivia holds multiple cadet barebow records in Illinois, and has achieved the elusive Bronze Olympian JOAD pin!  Here’s what she had to say.

Olivia Artz

  1. What’s your favorite style of archery to shoot?

My favorite style of archery to shoot is barebow.  I was initially taught barebow and, as of yet, I haven’t been curious enough to try any other styles.

  1. How did you get started in the sport?

I got started in this sport by reading the “Hunger Games” book series.  The main character, Katniss, is an archer.  I didn’t know anything about archery but I knew I wanted to try it.  My parents found Archery Custom Shop in Forest Park, Illinois and signed me up for private lessons with coach Jim.  I loved it!  Coach Jim encouraged me to join JOAD at Chicago Bow Hunters in Bolingbrook, Illinois.  It has been the best experience for me.  Coach Gabe Querol and all the other coaches have taught me so much.  Not only have I learned more about being a better archer, I have also made great friends.

  1. What archery accomplishment are you most proud of?

I am most proud of earning my outdoor Bronze Olympian JOAD pin.  It was a hard pin to earn, but I’m looking forward to working on earning the silver and gold this summer.

  1. What’s your most embarrassing archery moment?

My most embarrassing archery moment happened when I had just started shooting.  At JOAD practice, I went to the line before anyone else and started shooting before the whistle was blown. I was quickly reminded of the rules and I have never made that mistake again..

  1. Any advice for your fellow archers?

The advice I have for my fellow archers is not to get frustrated too quickly.  Take a step back, assess the situation, and try again.  Above all, have fun!

UPDATE:

Olivia has won 3rd place in both the USA Archery 2017 JOAD Indoor Nationals and 2017 Indoor Nationals!  Great Job, Olivia!