Pekin, IL-The State 4-H Archery Competition was held in Pekin on September 19. One family of archers arrived with quiet confidence, steady nerves, and years of practice. By the end of the day, they had become the story everyone was talking about.
Isaac, Ethan, and Audrey Mohr set a high bar for the competition, delivering standout performances that showcased not only their skill but also the discipline and hours of training needed to excel.
In the compound bow division, competitors are divided by age into a senior and junior competition. During the contest, archers must complete three rounds: a 504 round involving targets at various distances, a 3-D round with animal-shaped targets, and a final field round shot out in a natural terrain.
The brothers competing in the senior compound bow division placed first and second. Isaac won with an 845 out of 900 possible points. Ethan was just behind in second with 815.
Their sister Audrey, not to be outdone, claimed second place in the junior division with a score of 835.
Their instructor and coach, Jeff Hudgens, credits their success to "hard work, talent, dedication, and the unwavering support of their family." He commented, "The Mohrs show what can happen when young people commit themselves fully to a craft."
Due to their scores, Isaac and Ethan now have a chance to be invited to compete at the National Archery Competition in Grand Island, Nebraska. Invitations to this competition are based on their performances at qualifying events, like the Illinois State 4-H contest and their consistency during competitions. Their consistent shooting in Pekin places them among the region's strongest prospects. The national competition will take place in June 2027.
For the Mohr siblings, archery is more than a sport. It's a shared bond and a passion. Henderson County 4-H is excited to see where their hard work will take them.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.