OLATHE, Colo. (KREX) — In the small town of Olathe between Delta and Montrose, a middle school gym holds a virtual competition with teams from around the state.
Kyle and Colby Mccracken are brothers on the team with similar goals - perform even better than last year.
Assistant archery coach Jody Baugh tells WesternSlopeNow this team has made it to national championship for 10 years in a row and is gearing up to make that 11.
It's a pressure like no other to keep the streak going…Baugh states, "I think the hardest part about archery is keeping the mental focus. You can talk yourself into making great shots or you can talk yourself out of it too."
However, she says the students are handling it well, especially with roughly half the team already knowing what it's like to compete nationally.
Getting to nationals requires money…last year, the team had to come up with $30,000 to get there and compete. This year, they're so confident in beating state, they're already starting to fundraise. Baugh says, "we're having a chili dinner and silent auction and dance March 21 at the Montrose Elk's."
Students will also be available for hire to decorate yards the night before easter.
If you would like to donate, Baugh asks for you to reach out to her directly at 970 275 0245.