The first axe throwing league began in 2006 in a backyard in Toronto, Ont.
Matt Wilson, who founded the Backyard Axe Throwing League, is credited with popularizing the activity in Canada.
Eventually, the sport found its way down to the U.S. and now to the Eastern Upper Peninsula.
"It's a new trend. A new sport out there. People are really enjoying throwing axes," said Carol Eby of their new, expanding business called Half-Axed Axe Throwing.
On Saturday, Carol and her husband, Fred, held a grand opening at their Tilson Road address in Rudyard.
The event included several on-site vendors including Fast Eddy's and Juicy Joyce's Grub Hub.
This past spring, the Ebys started up their mobile axe throwing business and they have travelled all across the Upper Peninsula for various events and it was more successful than anticipated.
Now they have a permanent axe throwing setup at the wood shop on their property.
During Saturday's event, people signed up to test their skill at throwing the 14-ounce axe from 10-feet out at a bullseye on a board.
Several developed enough interest to sign up for the Axe Throwing League that the Ebys are starting up.
Even though the Ebys are officially retired from their careers, they took to vending to supplement their retirement and did not anticipate the high interest from everyone.
"I am the Yooper Girl Freeze-Dried Candy. I also do the freeze-dried candy. People love this stuff. Between the axe throwing and the candy, it's keeping us very busy in the retirement life," Carol said.
Anyone interested in more information about joining the Half-Axed Axe Throwing League can contact the Ebys at (906) 440-0829
