Local archer ready for US Summer Olympics
Josh Barnett- Sports Editor

For the second time in as many tries, 29-year-old Holton native Jason McKittrick is a member of the U.S. Archery Team, which will be representing America in the Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece in August.

Just like he did in the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, Australia, McKittrick will be the alternate for the team, which means if anyone gets injured before the start of the games, he will go in their place.

Growing up in Milan, McKittrick used his bow mainly for hunting and the occasional 3-D tournament at places like Coonhunters Lodge in Batesville. He didn't get into serious competition until he was a sophomore at Purdue University when he joined a club for bow hunters. From there he continued to compete with his bow until trying out for the 2000 Olympics. In the 2000 trials, McKittrick finished sixth, but due to some of the members of the team being disqualified, he was in place as alternate.

This year's trials were held in Mason, Ohio for over five days. The field started with 80 participants and was quickly cut to 16 and eventually to the top four.

McKittrick finished this year in fourth place with 4461 points, 11 points behind the third place finisher.
"Making alternate last time was a great experience, but I really didn't want to be alternate this year, I would rather be in the top three, but it's still an honor," stated McKittrick. He added, "I've improved a lot over the past four years and I'm going to have to keep working hard and hopefully I'll be able to make the team in four years."

McKittrick is currently living in Holton and works at Valeo in Greensburg. "I would like to thank everyone who came to watch and support me at the trials. The family support I had really helped," he concluded.