Axe throwing has grown in popularity as a unique and engaging activity for friends, family, corporate groups, and team-building events. Organizing an axe throwing party requires careful planning, safety considerations, and an understanding of the game. Below is an in-depth guide on how you can organize an axe throwing party.
1. Choose a Venue:
The first step in organizing an axe throwing event is to select a venue. Ideally, this would be a licensed ax-throwing facility that meets safety standards and can accommodate your group’s size. These facilities usually have trained staff who can oversee the event and provide proper instruction. If there’s no such facility in your area, you may need to explore renting out a space and setting up mobile axe throwing lanes, ensuring all safety concerns are adequately addressed.
2. Understand Safety Protocols:
Prioritize safety. If you’re not at a professional axe throwing venue with trained staff, hire a professional or someone who is experienced in axe throwing to lead the event. They can demonstrate proper technique and enforce safety measures. Ensure everyone wears closed-toe shoes, and establish clear rules such as not retrieving axes until all are thrown and no one stands behind the thrower. Most importantly, ensure the throwing range is secure from all sides.
3. Set Up the Throwing Area:
Whether an indoor or outdoor event, ensure a suitable distance is kept between throwers and spectators. The targets should be made of softwood and be placed about 36 feet away from the throwing line for tournament-level play. Otherwise, a 12- to 15-foot distance may suffice for casual throwing. Safety nets or fencing should surround the throwing lanes.
4. Provide Proper Axes and Equipment:
Use appropriate axes for throwing, typically with a wooden handle and weighing around 1.5 to 2.5 pounds. Make sure the axes are sharp enough to stick to the target but not excessively sharp to handle. Verify that you have enough axes for participants to minimize the waiting time.
5. Organize Participants and Teams:
Decide on the format of the event. For a casual party, participants can throw at their leisure, trying to hit the bullseye or playing simple games. For more competition, consider setting up a tournament with individual or team competitions. Create a bracket ahead of time to facilitate the flow of the competition.
6. Explain the Rules and Scoring System:
Before you start, give everyone a run-down of the game’s rules, how to score, and what constitutes a fair throw. A common scoring system is 5 points for a bullseye, 3 points for the second ring, 1 point for the outer ring, and 7 points for the small ‘kill shots’ at the top corners of the target.
7. Plan for Food and Beverages:
Decide if you’ll provide a full meal, just snacks, or maybe a food truck for larger events. Ensure you have an assortment of drinks, including non-alcoholic ones. Always ensure that alcohol consumption is responsible, especially since axes are involved.
8. Include Additional Activities:
In case there are wait times or people would like to take a break from throwing, it’s good to have other games or activities as an option. This ensures everyone remains entertained throughout the event.
9. Have a First Aid Kit and Emergency Plan:
Always be prepared for any accidents by having a first aid kit on hand. Ensure someone at the event knows basic first aid. Additionally, have emergency numbers ready and devise a plan in case someone needs medical attention.
10. Arrange for Photos and Memories:
Consider having a designated photographer or a photo booth equipped with axe throwing-related props. You can also create a hashtag for your event to help attendees share their photos on social media.
11. Provide Awards or Takeaways:
Especially if the event is competitive in nature, having awards for winners or participation souvenirs makes the experience memorable. You could give out certificates, trophies, or even custom-labeled axes.
By combining thorough preparation with a focus on safety and fun, your axe throwing party or event can be an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. Remember, the key to a successful event is in details like ensuring safety, keeping the flow of the event moving smoothly, and making sure every participant has a great time.