As an active long time wheelchair user, I am always on the prowl for fun, non-traditional adaptive activities to take part in around the community. Naturally, when I saw that a new axe throwing business was opening close to me, I jumped on the opportunity to participate in their opening weekend festivities. With our crazy busy lives, my husband and I try to make sure that we go on a date night at least once a week and this seemed like the perfect night out. We recruited a few friends who were skeptical (but excited!) to try Bad Axe Throwing with us.
As expected, when we entered the facility they had us each sign a safety waiver before we could touch an axe. They then set us up with our own personal group axe throwing trainer. I don't know about you, but I know I had never even thought about how to throw an axe before. We were set up to throw in groups of two. Our trainer took the time to thoroughly show us how to hold the axe, when to release the axe, and how to properly aim the axe at the wooden target.
First up was my friend Eric and me. We learned from our trainer that most people place the axe behind their head, take a large step forward, and then release. I joked with her that it might be a little different for us since we couldn't take that step forward to give the axe momentum. Being a semi-professional arm wrestler, I knew Eric would be better at it than me. I never hit the bullseye, but I got close a few times. I don't have the best trunk control, so it was a little difficult for me to concentrate on not falling forward and to aim properly. As the night went on, I learned better control.
When it was my husband's turn, Jason showed us all up. I threw against him and he hit the bullseye almost every time. You'd think he was a lumberjack that cuts wood and throws axes for a living!
Aside from the fact that I wasn't the best at axe throwing, I had a great time and would love to do it again. They offered a weekly league to the attendees that night, but I would have a long way to go to consider joining in. Jason and Eric, on the other hand, would make a great addition to a team. Bad Axe Throwing in Camillus, NY was very accommodating to both Eric's and my needs so that we could participate. My advice would be to get out there and try new non-traditional activities like axe throwing, because you'll never know how much you'll love it! To find a Bad Axe Throwing location near you, visit their website.
About the Author
Jess is a very active young wheelchair user. She lives in upstate New York with her husband, four dogs, and cat. For the past five years she has worked at Monroe Wheelchair doing Marketing and Business Development and helping to provide continuing education for clinicians across New York state through Monroe Learning Network. Jess volunteers in the Child Life Department at her local children's hospital every week putting on fun and educational activities for the patients and their families. In her spare time, she loves to be outdoors enjoying campfires, cooking out, and trying new adventures like axe throwing and zip-lining!
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