Inspirational student doesn't let handicap keep her from archery

Archery was a growing sport 40 years ago, but, then interest faded. Now it's making a comeback.<br/><br/>Thanks to help from several outdoor organizations, kids are once again learning how to aim

Tuesday, March 28th 2006, 4:19 pm

By: News On 6

Archery was a growing sport 40 years ago, but, then interest faded. Now it's making a comeback.

Thanks to help from several outdoor organizations, kids are once again learning how to aim and shoot arrows. News on 6 reporter Rick Wells went to Archery Day at the Deep Fork National Wildlife Refuge south of Okmulgee.

About a hundred 4th and 5th graders from three Okmulgee County schools are learning about archery.

Colin Berg of the Wildlife Conservation department says this archery in schools program is new in Oklahoma and so far, so good.

"It's about allowing the kids to be successful," says Berg.

They've been practicing in their schools for a week or so. Now they are outside for a field day to learn more.

The targets are set up at 70 and 90 meters.

John Magera of the 2004 Olympic Archery team is here to show the kids how good they can become. He's shooting at balloons on a breezy day, and he's a nice shot.

He says archery offers something for anyone interested.

"It's a sport for some, it's a hobby and pastime for others," says Magera.

Today's program is for the kids, with one in particular they wanted us to meet. Her name is Casey Martel. She's a fourth grader at Beggs, and a 10 year old who refuses to acknowledge what most would consider a disability.

Her PE teacher, Jeff Souders says, "she talked to me every day I wanna go I wanna do this, every day."

Determination like hers can't be ignored. With only one good arm to hold the bow, they rigged up the leather strap so she can shoot with her teeth.

No sitting on the sidelines for this kid.

Friends say they're proud of her, and they should be.

We all should.