Chang, a seasoned archer, says the course can be very challenging with varying distances and elevations.
The much-anticipated fourth installment of the Malaysia 3D Extreme Hunter competition took place recently amidst the scenic landscape of Bukit Putus, Negeri Sembilan, bringing together a lively crowd of archery lovers.
Over 150 participants, complete with their archery gear, embarked on a challenging journey through 24 checkpoints scattered across a local extreme park, blending the thrill of the hunt with the beauty of nature.
Competition manager Baharuddin Mohd Ali said the slots for the competition were filled up quickly as soon as the event was published on social media.
“Our community of traditional archers has been the backbone of this competition, growing in numbers with each edition,” he said, highlighting the loyal following the event has garnered over the years.
An archer aiming his shot at a target in a ravine.
This year, the competition welcomed a new breed of participants as it opened its doors to compound bow archers, introducing a twist in the rules to cater to their unique style, which relies on aiming devices to perfect their shots.
The competition was not just a test of precision but also a celebration of diversity in archery. Traditional, compound and barebow archers converged, with the latter being divided into two groups, adding layers of intrigue and camaraderie to the event.
“We have some exceptionally skilled archers who always manage to elevate the excitement with their remarkable performances on our 3D courses,” Baharuddin added, hinting at the high-calibre talent that the competition attracts.
Score-taking at a checkpoint during the tournament.
Set against the rugged backdrop of a 1.5km dirt track, the archers navigated the course to their designated checkpoints with their equipment in tow.
The challenge was not just in hitting the targets, which varied in distance and elevation, but also in embodying the spirit of a true hunter.
Shots that mimicked a strike to an animal’s vitals earned the highest praise and points, while mere body shots were deemed less favourable.
Archers help each other to range and sight a target at a checkpoint.
The dynamic range of 3D animal targets, set against the unpredictable terrain of steep slopes and downhill paths, tested the archers’ adaptability and prowess.
Jeb Chang, a seasoned barebow archer, shared his trials and triumphs on the course.
“The checkpoints with targets perched atop slopes were particularly daunting,” he confessed, emphasising the blend of skill and strategy required to excel.
Despite the physical demands and the erratic weather, Jeb’s spirit remained unshaken, fueled by the sheer joy of participation.
Archers hiking up to the extreme park in Bukit Putus, Negeri Sembilan.
The event ended with an impressive showcase of skill, as Mohd Rosle Halim took first place in the barebow class with a perfect performance, hitting every target. Other archers from different clubs also did well, highlighting the strong skills among the participants.
The organisers are setting their sights on expanding the horizon of the Malaysia 3D Extreme Hunter competition, aspiring to welcome international participants and elevate the event to new heights.
Baharuddin’s vision reflects a broader ambition to solidify Malaysia’s position as a hub for 3D archery, capitalising on the region’s growing enthusiasm for the sport.
As the sun sets on another successful edition, the archery community eagerly anticipates the next chapter in this exhilarating saga.
