Each January, the who’s who in the archery and bowhunting world gather at the ATA Show. Manufacturers are generating business, retailers are seeing and testing new products, and old friends get the chance to catch up.
Between all the face-to-face interactions, there’s also a general sense of “celebration.” It’s the one time every year that all those in the archery and bowhunting industry come together in support of a shared passion, and each year there are some individuals and companies that go above and beyond, all for the promotion and betterment of our sport.
The ATA Show is a great opportunity to celebrate innovation, as well as those making a difference, and the ATA’s Awards Program does just that. Beginning in 2020, it’s designed to honor those making a significant impact in the archery and bowhunting community, as well as companies launching new, innovative products.
“It’s exciting and inspiring to see all the hard work people are doing to grow the sports of archery and bowhunting,” Jennifer Mazur, ATA’s senior director of outreach and education, said. “These awards are the industry’s opportunity to recognize that work and the contributions these individuals are making for the future.”
The annual ATA Industry Celebration, presented by Mossy Oak, takes place the first night of the Show. After a long day full of business interactions, the event provides Show-goers with the opportunity to kick back with friends, fill up on great food and enjoy a couple drinks while listening to live music.
It also features a recognition of ATA award winners, who are represented in three categories: the Impact Award, New Product Launch Showcase Award and the all-new Industry Icon Award.
The Impact Award is just what it sounds like: It’s for people and companies that use their voice or platform to inspire others to enjoy, participate in and grow archery and bowhunting. The ATA presents the award to three recipients each year, and their impact could stem from creativity, service, technology, engagement, longevity, sustainability, overcoming adversity and/or awareness. Nominations are currently open.
Fourth Arrow received one of last year's Impact Awards. Photo Credit: ATA
Fourth Arrow and Wyndscent received an Impact Award at the 2023 Show. They launched in 2016 and have sponsored and partnered with Raised at Full Draw, an organization focused on introducing young people to archery and bowhunting, since the start.
“We are grateful to be a part of such a great industry the last seven years and to share in ATA’s goal of promoting archery and bowhunting,” Mark Wynalda said after receiving the award. “We are excited to continue to support programs like Raised At Full Draw and others that focus on training the next generation of bowhunters."
The ATA’s New Product Launch Showcase Award is open to any exhibitor who launches a product at the ATA Show and submits their product into the New Product Launch Showcase. A panel of industry experts review hundreds of entries and give a gold, silver and bronze award to companies for their new product design, innovation and ability to meet customer demands.
Latitude Outdoors won an award last year for their new product. Photo Credit: ATA
Last year, Latitude Outdoors took home the gold in the New Product Launch Showcase for their Carbon SS Climbing Sticks. After winning, Alex Chopp, co-founder and chief brand officer, said, “As a new company, recognition like this is extremely impactful to our business and will support a successful launch of the Carbon SS Climbing Sticks.”
Last, but certainly not least, is a brand-new award. The Industry Icon Award is presented to someone who is positively representing and protecting archery and bowhunting through significant contributions and volunteer work. The first-ever recipient will be announced at the 2024 ATA Show.
Don’t miss the 2024 ATA Show and the chance to recognize the well-deserved award winners at the industry’s annual event. The ATA Show is set for Jan. 11-13, 2024, at America’s Center in St. Louis. Those interested in exhibiting or attending the members-only Show should visit ATAShow.com.
For information on last year’s award recipients, click here. If you have questions about the ATA’s Awards Program, please contact Jennifer Mazur, ATA's senior director of outreach and education, at (507) 233-8139 or jennifermazur@archerytrade.org.
WE ARE HERE TO HELP THE INDUSTRY, TO HELP INDIVIDUAL BUSINESSES GET THE MOST OUT OF THE INDUSTRY, AND TO HELP YOU.
