ENMU-Ruidoso Science Students and Faculty Compete in First Atlatl Competition
Three Science students Rori Hixon, Crystella Porterfield, and Kristine Neuman, all of Ruidoso and Science Department Chair and Faculty Member Shelly Elfelt competed in their first Atlatl Throwing Competition Saturday, Nov. 1. The 23rd annual Atlatl Competition was held at the Blackwater Draw National Historical Landmark in Portales, N.M.
They left campus at 6 a.m., toured the archaeological site with Site Director Dr. Brendon Asher, participated in a few practice rounds, then competed by throwing atlatl darts at 10 targets.
“We all did well,” said Elfelt. “But Kristine tied for first place in the adult category against over 30 competitors. The man she tied with had won the competition several years in a row. He and Kristine had a shootout and she won second place! We had an absolute blast. I’m very proud of everyone. After the competition we had lunch and went to the Blackwater Draw Museum. We will be back next year for sure!” said Elfelt.
An atlatl throwing competition involves athletes using an ancient spear-thrower called an atlatl to compete in accuracy and distance. Participants throw a dart or spear from the atlatl, and results are judged based on how close their throws are to a bullseye or how far they can propel the projectile.
The ENMU-Ruidoso team used exact replicas, 15,000-35,000 years old, similar to what would have been found many years ago. Elfelt has incorporated this topic with the hands-on learning experience with the anthropology and archeology classes.
