Shootinghugh48, you bring up some very interesting points. I believe the IBO has addressed the cheating issue with the “double scoring” (this is when two separate score cards are kept by two different shooters in a group) of targets. This is a good check and balance to help alleviate one person incorrectly (either by accident or on purpose) recording the score of the targets shot. And it is the groups responsibility to ensure that each arrow is scored (with respect to if an arrow is “in” or “out”) correctly. I’m not familiar with the working of any Trapshooting Associations, so I really can’t make a fair comparison within the two. However, I can say that IBO puts on some very well organized 3D Archery events. I personally believe that the class system that is in place allows the best shooter to win their respected classes.
You have a great point about the promotion of the sport. IBO is doing it part by offering a great stage to showcase some of the best shooters in the world. I’m not real sure why the archery industry hasn’t promoted 3D archery more. Maybe they don’t see the benefits of such promotion. Like I say, I don’t have the answer to this. However, most people get they first introduction to 3D Archery from they friends and family members. So in reality, we are the key to helping spur the growth of 3D Archery by introducing people we know to our sport. If more people like you, who clearly has a passion for 3D Archery, would start sharing our sport with others there is no telling how big our sport could become.