The Vegas Vault: A Training Guide for The Vegas Shoot

The Vegas Shoot is the largest and most exciting indoor archery tournament in the world. Success doesn't just happen on the line; it happens in the months of preparation leading up to the event. This roadmap is designed to give both Rookie archers and their seasoned Mentors a precise plan for practice and mental management to maximize their performance.

Part 1: Simulating the Vegas Environment

The competition halls in Las Vegas are not the same as your home range. Your preparation should simulate those unique pressures and logistics.

• Practice Cold Scoring: At the competition, you only receive two practice ends (6 arrows) before your score is recorded. Start a portion of your practice by scoring your first end while you are still cold to mimic the immediate pressure of the event.

• Match the Tournament Pace: The Vegas Shoot runs a double-line format, meaning you shoot, and then you wait while the other half of the line shoots. It’s a good idea to practice at home at the same pace the event will run, which means intentionally waiting between ends to simulate a double line. If you practice fast rounds at home, you could struggle with the slow pace and extended waiting period at the actual event.

• Master the Clock: Ensure you are practicing under a clock that simulates the Vegas Shoot 2-minute time limit so that you feel comfortable and utilize any extra time to your advantage.

• Check Your Lighting: Practice in settings with all different lighting conditions (from low light to very bright) to know what your peep/sight combo will accommodate. The last thing you want is to arrive and be surprised by a lighting difference from home. Have a quick solution ready to mitigate this.

Part 2: Targeted Score Improvement and Mindset

Regardless of your current skill level, peak performance relies on discipline, realistic goal setting, and flawless execution.

• Shot Management is Paramount: Concentrate on shot management, knowing when it is necessary to let down, and understanding how much time it takes to execute a good shot. This focused management is essential for archers aiming to eliminate small errors.

• Avoid the Low-Time Rush: Know your shot timing well enough to avoid becoming nervous and shooting a bad shot when the clock is low on time.

• Set Realistic Goals: Create goals to improve your scores between now and The Vegas Shoot. As you get closer to the tournament date, consider your average score and realize that those scores or a little lower are what you should expect under pressure at The Vegas Shoot. Do not arrive at the event expecting to shoot higher scores than what you are capable of on an average day.

Part 3: The Mental & Physical Game

Preparation extends to your gear, your mind, and your body.

Prioritize Rest and Fuel

The Vegas environment is non-stop, and success requires discipline off the line. Don't let the excitement of Vegas compromise your physical preparation.

• Get Proper Sleep: Prioritize proper sleep every night to maintain focus and physical stamina over three days of competition.

• Eat Well: Ensure you consume balanced meals and stay hydrated throughout the entire event, especially on shooting days.

Equipment & Attire

• Know Your Gear: Be familiar with your equipment and confident in making last-minute adjustments as needed without adding stress during the event.

• Be Ready for the Unexpected: Review the proper steps for handling an equipment failure with your mentor. Be sure to pack reliable backup gear and tools so you can make quick repairs if needed.

• Consistency is Comfort: Keep things familiar and consistent with what you use at home (e.g., specific shoes, hat or no hat) and don’t veer from that when you are at the tournament.

• Binoculars Decision: Decide now whether you prefer to see your arrows downrange while you're shooting. Make sure you’re comfortable practicing with your binoculars if you plan to use them. If using binoculars tends to distract or frustrate you, practice with them off and only check your arrows when you get to the target.

Mental Management & Competition Drills

A mental management plan should instill confidence in your ability to perform at your best.

• Focus on Process, Not Score: Implement drills that allow you to focus on your shot process rather than your score. Mentors may be able to provide shooting drills that focus on form, time management, and execution to draw attention away from your score. This focus on the process can be a great way to maintain concentration while you are shooting the tournament as well.

• Know the Rules: Take the time to read and understand all the rules in their entirety to help you feel more prepared and reduce anxiety when you get onsite. A thorough understanding of the rules allows you to focus on shooting with confidence rather than worrying about potential penalties or misunderstandings.

• Get In Shape: Create a practice schedule that allows you to be in shape for 30 arrows each day plus any practice or warm up arrows you choose to shoot on the practice range.

• Simulate Nerves: Design high-pressure situations at your home club that help to induce nerves. These drills can help you identify where you have weaknesses and allow you to focus on becoming a stronger archer under pressure. This preparation will promote confidence if you find yourself in a shoot-off, competing for $10k-a-day, or trying to release the third arrow of an end with dwindling time on the clock.

Above all, be confident, remain positive, and know that you are there to have fun and be part of the world's largest archery celebration!