Athlete of the Week: Rigo Martinez

PHARR, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Sometimes the best things in life happen when we aren’t expecting them. A stroll into a store can change everything.

“Me and my father we would hunt a lot growing up, and we still do,” said Rigo Martinez, champion archer. “We still do. And we came in here for equipment, and I spotted the bow, and just kind of how things ended up.”

That day changed Rigo Martinez’s life because he dedicated his time to archery and excelled at it. Rigo has won numerous titles, including multiple Texas State Archery Association championships, both indoor and outdoor.  

“A lot of hard work has gone into it over the years,” said Martinez. “Words can barely describe how much has gone into it. So I'm extremely proud of these.”

Archery requires its competitors to master breathing. Breathe in for 3, exhale for 2, and breathe for one second while shooting. But that’s not all.

“The mental aspect of it, honestly, the sport,” said Martinez. “I mean, you see me pulling back a bow, but most people don't know this is about 90% mental. It's a mental sport more than anything.”

Rigo will compete on the archery team at Texas A&M, which is a club sport. The Aggies have won over 20 national championships.

“Growing up, I've always loved the Aggies, and I saw that I could go there for a sport that I also love," said Martinez. “So I figured, why not?”

Having found his passion while looking for something else, the marksman has his sights set on excellence.