Ready, aim, throw: Saint John man heading to world axe throwing competition

New Brunswick’s Brent Henderson is eager to throw for his province at the upcoming World Axe Throwing Championships.

There’s something undeniably satisfying about throwing an axe and watching it sink into a chunk of wood with a loud whacking sound. That noise becomes a symphony as dozens of people hurl their hatchets and axes at one of the many axe throwing clubs that have sprung up across Canada in recent years.

Brent Henderson is one of those people who has turned axe throwing into a sport and an art. It’s a hobby that’s evolved into a major part of his life.

“It was something I was always interested in as a kid,” he said. “Going outdoors we’d toss stuff around.”

Henderson can often be found aiming his axe for the bullseye on a board at Woodchucks in Saint John, N.B. He will be representing that club – and New Brunswick – at the upcoming world championships this spring.

“Last year was my first time at worlds,” he said. “It was very good.

“There’s so much camaraderie. It’s the only sport I’ve been in where no one argues.”

Henderson will be one of hundreds of axe and knife throwers who will compete at the World Axe and Knife Throwing Championships in Appleton, Wisconsin, from April 3 to 6.

“Axe throwing is way bigger in the states than here,” Henderson said. “In the East Coast I’m a big fish in a small pond. I take it as a win if I pick something up that makes me a better thrower.

Henderson started his axe and knife throwing journey three years ago when he signed up for a party at Woodchucks. An employee there recommended he join the league and immediately he was hooked.

“Once people try it, it’s very addictive,” he said. “It’s very satisfying to throw it and have it stick in the target.

“I practise when I can and try not to put too much pressure on myself because that affects my game.”

Beyond his own game, Henderson enjoys introducing people to axe throwing and helping them improve their tosses.

“The best thing for me is whenever I can help someone become a better thrower,” he said. “I enjoy that more than my own personal throwing. When I give advice, it makes me feel good.

“People want to give up right away but once you do get it, it’s a lot easier. Don’t give up, keep throwing.”

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