When the 35-Foot Spear site was first started, it was because there was no point of contact for a person interested in combat archery to go to in the Middle Kingdom.  There was even a time when the Kingdom Marshal’s page “lost” all information pertaining to combat archery for over a year. 

This site came into existence to assist me when I was asked to come out of retirement and take on the position of Deputy Earl Marshal for Combat archery for a second time. The main requirement for me to take on the job again was to start a Combat Archery Site that would have all the procedures, rules, regulations, reporting procedures, construction methods with photos etc. located on the site managed by me.  Truly it was a one stop location for combat archery resources. 

I held this position for over 10 years.  During that time, many worthwhile changes were made in the Combat Archery inspection program at Pennsic making it one of the best ever, with consistency and accountability.

I was actively involved in the process of getting fiberglass combat archery ammunition approved for the Middle Kingdom. 

During this time, I made many friends and had many great experiences. 

Some of the best memories of Pennsic were working with the many volunteers from different Kingdoms at the Combat Archery Point.  They put in several long hours and bonded together into one of the best groups I have ever been a part of.

In January 2023 I had cataract eye surgery in both eyes.  I found out that I have a predisposition to retinal detachment in one if not both eyes.  An impact to my face can cause this to happen. 

I have resigned my Heavy Weapons marshal warrant, my Rapier Marshal Warrant, Target Archery Warrant and my Combat Archery Marshal Warrant.  I no longer have a warrant or fighting card. 

My eye sight is far more important than my activities with the SCA.

I still intend to shoot target archery. 

I made the decision to take the site down because I felt it was time to do so.    I no longer have the time or desire needed to keep the web site up to date with the ongoing and frequent changes in direction of the Combat Archery program.

I can say with the greatest sincerity that I have felt very privileged and honored to be part of such an important and long lived program, and to work with the many devoted and fantastic volunteers who make it work (and fix it when it doesn’t)

It has been a real pleasure.

I want to give a very Special and Heart Felt THANKS to Mistress Sarah of the Erie Sea.  She was there during the Good, Bad, and Ugle times of the combat arcery Program. 

Her friendship and help was priceless and without end.  Thank you my friend.

Master Erik Erikson the Scout, OP

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