Alyssa Tyler editor in chief
Kinson Michel, senior in mathematics and Axe Coach at Main Street Axe Company is preparing for the World Axe Throwing Championships set for the weekend of April 19-April 21 in Tulsa, OK. There will be competitors travelling from all around the world to compete this weekend. Michel is entering the competition ranked No. 1 overall.
Ben Fowler, director of operations at Main Street Axe company in both Pittsburg and Joplin will also be traveling to Tulsa this weekend to compete in the World Knife Throwing League Championship. Main Street Axe Company is an affiliate of the World Axe Throwing League and World Knife Throwing League.
Fowler said there were many ways for throwers to qualify. Fowler qualified by placing in the global top 10 in the Fall league last year. Michele qualified at the end of the year through a bid.
Fowler said there are approximately 4,000 hatchet throwers, 3,000 knife throwers, 2,000 big axe throwers, and around 1,000 dual teams.
Michel will be entering the 2023 World Knife Throwing Championships in what he described as a lower rank.
“I played baseball for four years and then after four years I had three knee surgeries and one elbow surgery,” Michele said. “So, I decided it was done for my body to quit playing. And then I was told I needed to get a job, to help support me in school and make payments on things. So, I was looking for a job and Ben was the first person to reach out to me.”
Michel played for the Pitt State baseball team and after many injuries he left the sport. He then looked for a part-time job and began working for Main Street Axe Co in September of 2023. Michel started throwing in October of 2023 and is now ranked no. 1 in the world according to the World Axe Throwing League.
Fowler began competition in the Fall of 2018 and said that his goal for this year’s championships is to win five of the best three tournaments.
Michel said his goal for the World Championships is to place in the top five and make it to ESPN.
Statistics for both Michele and Fowler can be found at worldaxethrowingleague.com and axethrowing.org
