Bike stunts and fishing highlight Academy opening

Chris Clark preparing to start one of two shows he performed at the Academy Sports + Outdoors grand opening celebration on May 11. (RECORD PHOTO/ALDO AMATO)

By Aldo Amato

Staff Reporter

HUNTSVILLE — Huntsville and Madison residents made it out on a rainy Saturday to partake in Academy Sports + Outdoors’ grand opening.

The store opening featured BMX rider Chris Clark, a Daisy BB gun shooting range and a catfish tank for adults and children to enjoy. Clark has competed in shows and events all across the world like the Vans Warped Tour, the New York Times Square Parade and the Olympic Games.

“This was just a taste of our 3-day grand opening event,” Regional Marketing Specialist Cody Reid said. “We want to do this for the community and celebrate coming to Huntsville.”

The 7506 Highway 72 West location is the first ever Academy Sports + Outdoors in Madison County.

“The community has really reacted to this new store,” Reid said. “We have a great staff, great associates and being able to provide all the services shows what a great team we have.”

The fun-filled afternoon will not be the last time Academy Sports + Outdoors plans on holding a community event.

“We are always looking to do events with the community,” he said. “Whether it be using our vendors or local businesses or organizations.”