SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — With more recreational activities transitioning into popular sports, two Central New York business seem to have hit the bullseye on the latest trend — axe throwing.
To many, axe throwing is just a team-building exercise or fun activity you try with some friends over the weekend; but since the World Axe Throwing League was founded in 2017, it’s already grown to include big-name sponsors, TV deals with major networks, and cash prizes worth thousands of dollars.
But Jazmen Thomas, an axe throwing coach at Bad Axe Throwing in Camillus, says getting started is easier than it seems.
“Like any other kind of sport, practice makes perfect,” Thomas said. “All it takes is practice and you can literally become a professional.”
To better understand how axe throwing works, I went to Far Shot Syracuse to learn directly from axe throwing coach Evelyn Oliver. She says the technique is fairly simple once you get the hang of it.
“I like to think about the setup as kind of a triangle,” Oliver said. “Elbow in, pointed forward — with the ax-head on your shoulder or a little bit behind – and a nice follow-through and a flick of the wrist.”
Oliver says her favorite part of the job is seeing her coaching work with new throwers.
“Coaching people and watching them finally hit the target and they light up — it’s like yes, you can do it — is really rewarding,” Oliver said.
Starting June 27, Far Shot Syracuse will host axe throwing league events, where axe throwing league members can compete each Tuesday.
The WATL season also begins this weekend, and with both Bad Axe Throwing and Far Shot Syracuse as official WATL qualifying locations, the next axe throwing world champion may come from right here in Central New York.
