The Urban Park Rangers quietly run some of the strangest free programming in the city, and an hour of magnetic archery and foam axe throwing on a Queens ballfield is a good example. Rangers teach the actual form, the equipment is designed so nobody gets hurt, and every piece of gear is provided at no charge. If you have kids with energy to burn or you simply want to throw an axe without booking a bar in Brooklyn, this is a free hour well spent.
What to expect
Rangers set up targets on the ballfields and run short rotations through the bows and the axe lane. Instruction is basic and immediate, so first-timers are shooting within minutes. Groups are small, drop-in, and the whole session is contained in a single hour on open grass.
Good to know
- The A train to 88th Street-Boyd Avenue or the Q7 bus put you within reach of the park
- All equipment is provided by the Rangers, so nothing needs to be brought
- It is a drop-in session on a first-come basis with no registration
- Wear closed shoes and clothes you can move in; the session runs on open ballfields
- It suits families with school-age children as well as curious adults
- The fields are exposed, so bring sun cover and water
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Common questions
Is the equipment safe for children?
Yes. The program uses magnetic arrows with magnetic targets and foam axes rather than sharpened equipment, and Urban Park Rangers supervise every rotation.
Do I need to register in advance?
No. Urban Park Rangers programs like this run as free drop-in sessions on a first-come basis, with all gear supplied on site.
Where is Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto Park?
It is in Ozone Park, Queens, named for the Yankees shortstop and broadcaster. The session takes place on the park's ballfields.
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