Skip to Main Content

Press Release

Press releases may contain information regarding programs, policies, regulation, rules, or fees of DWR and are current at the date of release. Information beyond that date is subject to change. Please contact DWR for further inquiries.

For Immediate Release

October 6, 2026

Contact:

Shelby Crouch, Public Information Officer
shelby.crouch@dwr.virginia.gov

Register Today for the 3rd Annual DWR Archery Open

Presented by Green Top Sporting Goods and supported by the Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation

Richmond, VA—Registration is live for the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources 2027 Archery Open taking place on Saturday, Jan. 9 at the Richmond Raceway Complex.

This year, DWR is proud to announce the second year working with Green Top Sporting Goods as the presenting sponsor for the Open and the third year working with the Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation to produce a premiere statewide archery competition in Richmond.

“For the competitors, we are beyond excited to bring the DWR Archery Open back for its third year,” said DWR Archery Education Coordinator Ben Fairbanks. “DWR is dedicated to growing the sport and supporting archers throughout the Commonwealth and we couldn’t do that without support from our sponsors Green Top Sporting Goods and The Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation. Whether you’re competing or cheering someone on, we hope to see you in Richmond in January.”

“We’re proud to continue our partnership with DWR and the Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation in support of an event that brings people together through the tradition of archery. The DWR Archery Open is a great example of how archery can create community, fellowship, education, and a lifelong appreciation for conservation,” said Hunter Brooks with Green Top Sporting Goods.

“It’s an honor for WBWF to again partner with the Department of Wildlife Resources on the Archery Open presented by Green Top,” said President and Founder of The Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation, Ward Burton. “Providing archers of all ages the opportunity to compete while bringing the community and like-minded organizations together is a win-win. I hope to see you there on January 9th!”

In an effort to encourage more participation and make the Archery Open more affordable for all archery enthusiasts, registration fees have been reduced for 2027 with Youth at $35, Adult at $50, and Open Championship at $100. Open Championship participants compete with other experienced archers for the chance to win big cash prizes including up to 75% of the registration fees collected for the division.

The Archery Open welcomes all disciplines from compound to recurve — whatever equipment you use, there is a category for you.

After a successful introduction in 2026, the Try Archery Range is back! This is where anyone can give archery a try with guidance from an experienced instructor in a supportive and fun atmosphere. The Try Archery Range is free, and no experience or equipment is needed to join the fun!

Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are available for the 2027 Archery Open. Read the Sponsor and Exhibitor Guide to learn how your organization can get in front of archery enthusiasts and conservation-minded individuals from across the Commonwealth.