by Chuck Seaver, South Lake Tablet
Clermont has a new business in town with an extraordinary theme. Ax-Caliber, located at 524 West Avenue, is home to the previous marketplace in the historical downtown district. The owners, Kraig and Joyce Woodrow have an extensive history in ax throwing. While bringing the second location to Clermont from its original location in Lakeland, the business offers 16 lanes of air-conditioned ax-throwing pits for both personal fun and competitive talent. Each pit has a World Axe Throwing League (WATL) target and axes. Coaches are there for you every step of the way to build your confidence and record your scores. Challenges, such as the “100-throw challenge,” are offered during the week to eager throwers. The challenge offers a chance to beat the standing score and potentially win a t-shirt and free pit time. The venue also offers dozens of structured games and competitions that are fit for couples or multiple-person teams.
While the exterior of the building remains much the same as it did originally, the interior has been completely remodeled to introduce a rustic atmosphere with a touch of modern-day flair. The open-air floor plan includes several large television screens throughout the pit area that are tuned in to live sports across the nation. A beautiful wood-carved stairway has been added to the interior that leads to a loft area above the pits.
The large, covered outdoor area includes the Blade & Barrel Bar managed by Brittany Meal. Brittany and co-worker Jennifer bring a lot of positive personality to the patio area and will surely make patrons feel welcome while enjoying their favorite beverage from the large selection of beer and wines offered. The patio includes several seating areas for patrons while they enjoy a rest or a wonderful meal from the Los Reyes Restaurant which recently moved to the new location. Plans for a second food venue are underway and may include the Los Reyes family. Although ideas are still underway, the family would like to add a second choice of food options, including an American-themed menu. The patio includes a soft, inflatable-style target pit for the younger-aged throwers who haven’t quite reached the level of full-grown axes yet.
Pet owners will be pleased to see that the “puppy bath and fountain” will remain. The convenient stop for dog-walkers on the nearby fitness trail is always a welcomed site during the heat of Florida summers. Patrons can refresh and bathe their four-legged friends while enjoying the shade themselves under the large pavilion and oak trees located in the area.
One positive quality of business that was immediately noticed while touring the facility was the outpouring of friendliness and hospitality of the staff at every station. Each staff member was accommodating to questions and even offered demonstrations for the amateurs in our tour.
Please visit www.axcaliber.com for a full listing of prices, hours of operation, and services offered.
