For one weekend in late August, Clarksville-Montgomery County will become the center of the bowhunting world as the inaugural Bowhunter Games brings elite competitors, everyday hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to Pine Ridge Farm.
The inaugural Bowhunter Games, a first-of-its-kind archery festival taking place Aug. 20-23, is expected to draw between 1,200 and 1,500 archers from across the United States and around the world to Pine Ridge Farm on the Montgomery-Stewart County line. Ahead of the festival, organizers will host a free sneak peek event for active-duty military members on Aug. 19. With registration already at 1,018 competitors, the event continues to build momentum. Organized through a partnership between Pine Ridge Farm, Visit Clarksville and the Archery Shooters Association, the event blends competitive archery with live entertainment, outdoor vendors and family-friendly activities.
Unlike traditional professional archery tournaments, the Bowhunter Games puts the spotlight on everyday hunters. Competitors use hunting-style equipment rather than specialized professional gear, creating a competition that closely mirrors real-world bowhunting experiences.
“Whether you’re an experienced bowhunter, a curious spectator or simply looking for a unique weekend experience, the Bowhunter Games delivers a memorable mix of competition, outdoor recreation and entertainment,” said Blake Monroe, Senior Director of Sales for Visit Clarksville.
Prize payouts, Olympic medalists
The event features more than $100,000 in prize payouts, including a $60,000 top prize in the men’s division and a $40,000 top prize in the women’s division, making it one of the most lucrative amateur bowhunting competitions in the country.
Interest has already extended well beyond Tennessee. Organizers say archers from more than 35 states and six countries have registered, including five-time Olympic medalist Brady Ellison and Olympic bronze medalist Casey Kaufhold. The field also includes the world’s No. 1- and No. 2-ranked archers through World Archery, along with several archery-focused YouTube personalities expected to help bring additional attention to the inaugural event. For athletes interested in competing, advance registration is required through the Bowhunter Games website.
Beyond the competition, the Bowhunter Games is shaping up to be a full-scale family-friendly outdoor festival. On Aug. 19, active-duty military members will be invited to a free sneak peek of the Bowhunter Games, with exclusive early access to shoot the course before the festival on Aug. 20-23. Visitors can explore a vendor village currently featuring 53 confirmed vendors, including hunting and outdoor brands from across the country, local businesses, food vendors and live music throughout the weekend. Organizers are also working with additional vendors from related outdoor and lifestyle fields, including fishing lure companies and women’s jewelry brands. Spectator admission is free, making it easy for families and visitors to experience the event firsthand.
Enjoy fishing, golf, downtown in Clarksville
For Visit Clarksville, the Bowhunter Games represents more than just another sporting event. It’s an opportunity to introduce thousands of first-time visitors to everything Clarksville and Montgomery County have to offer.
The event aligns naturally with the community’s growing reputation as an outdoor destination, where visitors can enjoy everything from fishing and hiking to golf, parks and a vibrant downtown. Organizers estimate the inaugural event could generate $1.5 million to $2 million in visitor spending, providing a significant economic boost for local businesses.
Perhaps just as important, the Bowhunter Games creates an experience that brings visitors and residents together. While competitors will travel from across the country, organizers expect many participants to come from Clarksville and surrounding communities, giving local archers the chance to compete on a national stage without leaving home.
As Visit Clarksville continues to expand its portfolio of sports tourism events, the Bowhunter Games is an opportunity to showcase the city’s ability to host large-scale competitions. For outdoor enthusiasts, it is a chance to test their skills. For families, it is a new weekend adventure. And for Clarksville, it is another opportunity to welcome the world to one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing destinations.
Ready to experience the action?
Spectator admission to the Bowhunter Games is free. Athletes who want to compete must register in advance at https://bowhunter.games.
Make the most of your trip by going to Visit Clarksville to discover what else is happening around town, from local events and outdoor adventures to dining, shopping and family-friendly fun.