Feeding Our Competitive Spirit Down in Somerset

Review of Axcadia, Bridgewater, UK

Axcadia is an IATF affiliated venue in Somerset, England (“the southwests[sic] only IATF affiliated venue!” apparently). As such, I expected the usual uniform approach, good coaching and a healthy emphasis on competitive axe throwing – I wasn’t disappointed! Actually, if anything, I’d say my expectations were exceeded.

There were the usual side-by-side dual target lanes, with the standard IATF three-ring targets on vertical planks. The planks were in particularly good condition, which was a treat. There was just the two of us throwing, so we had a lane to ourselves, ie with a target each.

There were three lanes, ie six targets. However, the axe throwing is based in a larger building called The Activity Warehouse, so there is a handy cafe/bar area as well as plenty of spectator/party space around the axe throwing area. This is an innovative concept, where a variety of activity businesses are sharing the same space. As it sounds, a large warehouse type space. So, if you fancy having a go at another activity in addition to axe throwing, you could book into a variety of other things such as shooting, darts, boxing or even dog training – or just get refreshments from the cafe/bar after your throwing.

Our axe coach was friendly and very encouraging throughout. He talked us through the safety and instruction brief. Inevitably, he showed us the IATF throwing model (ie stepping in from behind the 15ft line). It’s not my favourite technique, so I tend to show willing for a bit and then stick to standing on the 12ft line (it’s just personal preference – not because it is any better). Our axe coach was fine with that and didn’t try to push a particular line.

Interestingly, once our axe coach was happy we could throw ok, he didn’t wander off to do other things as I would have expected. Instead, he stayed with us for the full session, leading us through a series of competitive games. Ordinarily, I might have found this a bit restrictive (I imagine some might prefer to be left to themselves), but he was just so enthusiastic about it all, creating a suitably competitive tempo, that we really enjoyed it.

The games ranged from straight scoring on the standard target in various ways, to hitting playing cards, and even noughts and crosses by the end (I think he was getting worried he was running out ways to keep us occupied by then!). He kept us going, scoring for us, and offering plenty of praise for our throwing. He did chuck in a few suggestions that we should join their league or take part in a one-off competition they were holding. However, it didn’t come over as excessive selling of their competitions, and generally, I think stressing that axe throwing can be a competitive sport is a positive thing (even for those who only do it occasionally for fun). In any case, I’d expect it from a league-oriented venue like this one.

There was a selection of good house hatchets to choose from. I was happy with the throwing hatchet, but there were even things like a Collins Half Hatchet, with a pretty hefty axe head, which would suit others too.

Guided as it was, the hour flew by. We not only had a fun time but really felt energized to take on a competition or two at the end. (Although, that was possibly more to do with the constant praise of our coach, rather than our performance!). Apart from the minor niggles mentioned before, I can’t think of any real criticisms. It was the usual sound IATF model, but delivered exceptionally well, in an unusual, enterprising environment. We couldn’t make their competition at the time, but I would definitely consider it if I’m ever back in the area in the future.

Disclaimer: “The Axe Inspector” receives no payment or benefit of any kind from either TheAxeThrower.com or from the venue, for this review. The review is the subjective opinion of one person (albeit as objective as possible) and we encourage throwers to try out the venue to make their own mind up.