2026 South Dakota State 3D Championships Wrap Up in Aberdeen

34 Archers Competed in South Dakota's Premier 3D Championship

July 18–19, 2026 • Hosted by Whitetail Bowmen • Aberdeen, South Dakota

The 2026 South Dakota State 3D Championships brought together 34 archers from across South Dakota and neighboring states for an outstanding weekend of competition. Despite significant flooding in the days leading up to the event, the championship showcased not only excellent shooting but also the dedication and resilience of the South Dakota archery community.

Rising Above the Flood

Preparing for this year's championship was no easy task. Heavy flooding created major challenges for the host club, impacting the range and surrounding grounds. Thanks to the countless hours of work by the volunteers at Whitetail Bowmen of Aberdeen, South Dakota, the course was restored and ready in time for the championship.

Their dedication and perseverance ensured competitors could enjoy a safe, well-prepared, and enjoyable weekend of shooting. The success of the event was a direct reflection of the hard work that took place long before the first arrows were launched.

Challenging Course, Outstanding Performances

Competitors shot a challenging two-day course featuring 28 3D targets each day, for a total of 56 scoring arrows. The course tested archers' ability to maintain consistency, and execute accurate shots across a variety of realistic target presentations.

Several competitors delivered exceptional performances throughout the weekend:

• Freestyle Adult Male (FSAM): Colin Healy captured the state title with an outstanding 596, narrowly finishing ahead of Jacob Russell (595) and Devon Mueller (582).
• Freestyle Adult Female (FSAF): Maren Sanders earned the championship with an impressive 589.
• Modern Bowhunter Freestyle Adult Male (MBHAM): Trent Deel secured first place with 596, followed by Tyler Groenewold (587) and Dustin Poor (581).
• Modern Bowhunter Freestyle Adult Female (MBHAF): Aubrey O'Connell claimed the division title with 554.
• Bowhunter Freestyle Adult Male (BHFSAM): Nathan Dixon took home first place with a score of 524.

Congratulations to all of this year's state champions and podium finishers for their outstanding performances.

Great Weekend for 3D Archery

After the challenges leading up to the event, Mother Nature cooperated throughout most of the weekend. Comfortable temperatures and calm conditions made for excellent shooting, while a brief passing shower provided a welcome cool-down without disrupting competition.

Thank You to Whitetail Bowmen

The 2026 South Dakota State 3D Championships demonstrated what makes South Dakota's archery community so special. A sincere thank you goes to Whitetail Bowmen and its dedicated volunteers for overcoming difficult conditions to host a first-class state championship.

Thank you as well to the range officials, and all 34 archers who traveled to compete. Your support and sportsmanship helped make this year's championship another memorable event.

Official results and complete division standings are available on Ianseo.

Up Next: 2026 South Dakota State Target Championships

The South Dakota archery season continues with the 2026 South Dakota State Target Championships. Whether you're chasing another state title or competing in your first target championship, we look forward to seeing you on the shooting line.

Visit SD Archers website for event details, registration information, and the full tournament schedule.