On target: Palmyra teen-ager among nation’s top archers
NBA star LeBron James turned professional following his graduation from high school. Cassie Hancock of Palmyra might well do the same thing.
Both competitors are known for their accurate shots. The only difference is that while James’ shot is done with a basketball, the 13-year-old Cassie’s shots are made with a bow and arrow.
Cassie, the daughter of Jason and Misty Hancock, has enjoyed increasing amounts of success. She recently finished fourth in her age division in the World Archery Festival in Las Vegas, missing top honors by just two points.
Last year the teen set a new record in winning the Missouri State Tournament. She also won the Midwest Sectional Tournament in 2012. She’ll be defending her titles in both tournaments in the coming weeks, as well as competing in the Indoor Nationals in Louisville, Ky., in which she placed third last year.
Cassie has become a force to be reckoned with in a relatively short amount of time, taking up the sport only five years ago.