World Atlatl Association 21st Annual Contest at Valley of Fire State Park on March 30 – April 1

ValleyofFire 196x300 World Atlatl Association 21st Annual Contest at Valley of Fire State Park on March 30 – April 1OVERTON, Nev. – The World Atlatl Association is having its 21st annual contest and is inviting the public to learn about this ancient weapon, the people who used them and to try their skills in a throwing contest. The events are free, but entry to the park is $10 per vehicle. Nevada residents receive a $2 discount. Check for registration dates and times.

Download an event poster.

March 30: Atlatl Demonstration

Drop by Atlatl Rock to learn about the ancient tool the atlatl, which predates the bow and arrow. The atlatl was commonly used by natives of the area while hunting bighorn sheep. Get a chance to throw an Atlatl and test your hunting skills.

               WHEN: Friday, March 30 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

               WHERE: Participants will gather at Atlatl Rock. The park is located only six miles from Lake Mead and 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas via Interstate 15 and on exit 75.

               WHO: The event is open to the public.

March 31: 3D Target Contest

Join people from around the world as they compete to be the best Atlatl Competitor. Registration is free and starts at 8 a.m. Trophies will be awarded for first, second and third places in the women’s, men’s and children’s divisions. Some atlatls will be available to share.

               WHEN: Saturday, March 31 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

               WHERE: Participants will gather at Atlatl Rock. The park is located only six miles from Lake Mead and 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas via Interstate 15 and on exit 75.

               WHO: The event is open to the public.

March 31: Ancient Arts and Weapons Kids Activities

Join park staff for fun crafts, learn how to throw with an atlatl, create your own petroglyph and many more fun activities.

               WHEN: Saturday, March 31 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

               WHERE: Participants will gather at Atlatl Rock picnic area. The park is located only six miles from Lake Mead and 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas via Interstate 15 and on exit 75.

               WHO: The event is open to the public.

April 1: Atlatl Endurance Challenge

Join competitors from around the world to test your endurance in pursuing your prey. Competitors will run a one mile fun run, 5k (3.1 miles), or a half-marathon (13 miles) trail route, and end with a precision shoot out to test their skills in the ancient hunting tactics. Medals will be awarded for first, second and third place in all three distances runs. A minimum of five participants are required for each distance.

               WHEN: Sunday, April 1 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

               WHERE: Participants will gather at Atlatl Rock. The park is located only six miles from Lake Mead and 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas via Interstate 15 and on exit 75.

               WHO: The event is open to the public. Participants must sign up by via phone 702-397-2088 or email at vofranger2@mvdsl.com no later than 4:30 p.m. March 21, 2012.

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