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References |
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On Target – Capital Area Sportsmen’s League Newsletter |
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WAS THIS THE HUNT OF A LIFETIME?
Do all men harbor the fantasy of going to Africa to hunt big game? Dan Kelley had such a plan, and it included hunting with a bow. The dream became a reality when in the summer of 2008 he and his close friend, Jeff Ladd landed in Namibia, Africa. Their outfitter, http://www.agagia.com, features hunts with bows only. It was winter there, the dry season, so they had every reason to be optimistic. The lack of water forces almost every animal to go to watering holes which were few and far between. Blinds had been set up offering archery shots in the ideal 15-20 yard range. Dan and Jeff settled in for 10 days of great shooting, good food and drinks. Life IS good!
The hunting gods have been known to smile on us, (well...some of us) on occasion. So, what would constitute a hunt of a lifetime? Dan harvested seven trophies, 2 warthogs, 2 gemsboks, a kudu, a Red Hartebeest and a Blesbook. Dan is fortunate to have a home large enough to display these trophies.
There are 9 foot ceilings in the basement with a 2 story ceiling in the living room. (What do you think the odds are that he had those trophies in mind when he decided to buy his home?)
Dan wanted to get a Blue Wildbeest so he borrowed a rifle and traveled to the ranch of the outfitter’s brother who has some on his property. He struck out on the Wildebeest but was elated to spot a handsome Blesbok which is pictured here.
The red hartebeest was his most memorable trophy. They are one of the fastest runners, often post sentries on high vantage places like anthills and can go without water gaining all the moisture they need from their food. Dan and his guide had fallen asleep in the blind and were startled when they awoke to see a trophy red hartebeest a mere 15 yards away heading for the waterhole. The hunting gods smiled that day. When asked if this was the hunt of a lifetime Dan responded with an answer that sheds a lot of light on the kind of father that he is. “I hope not. My boys are 12 and 14 and 5 years from now I want the three of us to return to Africa so they can experience the thrills that I enjoyed.” That may not be what he said, exactly, but it is obvious that he is a good father and a friend to his boys. |
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janice, murray and mary-kate from canada |
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Hi there Carin,
We made it back safe and sound. The internet connection has been down for a couple of days so my apologies for not getting back sooner.
We are so pleased to have included camp Agagia in our travels and we wanted you to know how much we all enjoyed your top rated accommodations, hunting and friendships . Many very special memories came back with us to Canada and we have loads of pictures to remind us.
There will be a package send to you in the next few weeks. Could I get your mailing address and we'll keep our fingers crossed it makes it your way? Now and again I hear in Mary-Kate's play she mentions little Tiellie's name and at the tender age of 6 months he already makes a big impression on the ladies. Please give our warm regards to your Tielman.
Your friends, Janice, Murray and Mary-Kate |
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Glenn Brown, Flint Michigan Chapter of SCI |
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Dear Carin and Tielman, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the wonderful hospitality you extended to me on my recent hunting trip with you. Although this was my 7th trip to Africa, it was my first to Namibia and my first hunt with Agagia.
I could not have been more pleased with the hunting, the super meals, the accommodations and the quality of the animals. It was a real pleasure hunting on your 53,000 acres of free range bow only ranch.
With the blinds you have set for all wind conditions, Agagia is a bow hunters dream.
If the Lord and you are willing I would like to return someday. Best Regards, Glenn Brown Flint Michigan Chapter of SCI |
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