MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton opened a second archery range on base Jan. 27.
The new Las Flores Archery Range range is intended to replace the old Cristianitos range, providing archers with a much more convenient place to hone their craft.
“Archery on base is quickly growing, so having two viable archery ranges is important,” said Mike Tucker, the chief game warden for MCB Camp Pendleton’s Environmental Security Department. “The Cristianitos archery range was impacted by military training, and could not be used reliably. Moving the Cristianitos archery range to the Las Flores Ranch House improves the availability of the range immensely.”
The new range is within a short drive from most locations on base. Its open to anyone with base access, and costs are covered by the Pendleton Sportsmans Club, which maintains both archery ranges.
“The hassle free, simple operation of the range, and its location next to the Pulgas gate allows archers to stop by the range before and after work,” explained Tucker. “Or anytime, for that matter.”
Many non-traditional demographics are joining the sport the fastest, with young female archers quickly making ground in what was historically perceived as mostly a male sport, according to Tucker. Base officials hope that easier access and more opportunities to shoot encourages more people to take up the sport and try their hand with a bow and arrow.
“Yes, it's too good to be true, but it's true,” said Tucker, adding that anyone interested in learning more about the archery range, range events or the Pendleton Sportsmans Club should visit www.sportsmansclub.net.