Entertainment destination Far Shot Recreation celebrates opening
World Axe Throwing League coach Benn MacDonald has expanded his Far Shot Recreation to downtown Albany, officially opening on October 11 at the 69 N Pearl Street location. Open six days a week, the axe-throwing, knife-throwing, and archery entertainment destination is the first to open within the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District.
Through their association with, and 2017 championship title from, the World Axe Throwing League (WATL), Far Shot has an edge on the competition; MacDonald serves as head coach and head referee for the organization that started with 16 affiliates in 2017 and has since grown to over 150 in over 20 countries and 6 continents. In his capacity as ref, MacDonald calls all official ESPN televised matches for the WATL including the Canadian Open, US Open, and upcoming World Championship, to air in December.
“What’s great about axe-throwing is we see new players all the time, and they can quickly grow into a top contender within months. All it takes is practice, passion for the game, and the axe-throwing community,” said MacDonald. “We're really excited to be here in Albany, to offer our Urban games and to grow the sports in the community. Being part of the Downtown culture was what we strived for when we were looking for our new home. We love the historic charm, current energy, and dynamic future that's here. We look forward to working with the local businesses as we add to the growing entertainment Downtown.”
While axe-throwing may be one of the oldest sports, it is among the newer outing ideas for those on a date, joining a league, out for corporate team building, celebrating a divorce, or anything in between. Participants utilize purposefully dulled axes and knives, are always under the direction of a coach, and must adhere to requirements that include closed toe footwear, waivers, following safety instructions at all times, and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
MacDonald notes that walk-in times are ideal for groups less than six people, with a recommendation that groups of 6 or more choose an activity and reserve private lanes. Cost starts at $25 per person, with the option to add on additional activities for $5 per person. Food and beverages available for purchase.
