Blog # 7
Attraction Name: Casa Loma, Toronto
Submitted By: Telisha Ng
Word Count: 375

Bulls Eye: A Single Gal’s Adventures at Casa Loma

As a child I enjoyed archery lessons at summer camp, I excelled in the sport, well in the little time that I had to learn it that is. When I got back to the city, it was back to the usual hockey, basketball, and baseball in gym class. Was archery only reserved for suburbanites and hunters? I was determined to find a refresher course in a sport I loved as a girl.

My google search ended up bringing me to Casa Loma. The majestic castle stands proudly in the middle of downtown Toronto. It was owned by Canadian financier Sir Henry Pellatt who was fascinated with weapons, engineering and electricity, it seemed only fitting that they offer archery lessons.

It had been years since I stepped foot on the castle grounds, I remember going to Casa Loma on class field trips and once to instil some culture in my kid sister, but as a single gal I had no logical reason to visit. When I came across the lessons I was ecstatic, not only would this be a great opportunity to pick up some new skills , but it would be a great opportunity to get out and meet new people.

I thought about inviting a friend, but decided that I’d branch out and try something new solo.

The workshop fee covers admission into the castle and workshop supplies. As I scrolled through all the special event listings and workshops that Casa Loma offered on their website, I was in awe, there is something for every member of the family from big band dances, movie screenings, to royal banquets.

I had 4-hours of uninterrupted shooting time and instruction, the staff were patient and very resourceful. After the workshop I had a few hours to tour the castle grounds and admire the result of a visionary who thought outside the box and created one of the most stunning private homes in North America.

For a moment I felt the hustle and bustle of city leave me, and was transported back into a more romantic period of time when grandeur, culture and honour were more valuable than the brand of clothing or type of smart phone one owned.