First held in 2009, Versus MX was started to inaugurate the Pan American Archery Stadium prior to the Guadalajara 2011 Pan American Games. It returned in 2013 – and has been a popular independent and open-entry fixture on the international calendar ever since.

The next Versus MX Shoot takes place in Zapopan city from 29 March to 2 April in 2017.

Tempted to hop on the next plane to shoot in this beautiful region of western Mexico? Here are five reasons why you absolutely should…

1. Outdoor begins

Whether an international archer waiting for the start of the Hyundai Archery World Cup season – which begins in the middle of May in Shanghai – or just someone looking to get an early start on your competitors, Versus MX is one of the earliest events on the outdoor calendar for the populations of the northern hemisphere.

The tournament, which attracts some of the world’s best, lasts five days.

Official practice takes places on Wednesday 29 March and the finals finish on Sunday 2 April, and the competition includes round-robin format groups, eliminations and finals. Those who go all the way shoot a total of 17 head-to-heads, for the ultimate in match training.

2. Big names

For edition number six of Versus MX, top Mexico names like Linda Ochoa, Julio Fierro, Aida Roman, Luis Alvarez, Juan Rene Serrano and Luis Velez are confirmed – as well as international shooters including Rio 2016 double-medallist Brady Ellison, Bridger Deaton, Dave Cousins and world number one Mike "Mister Perfect” Schloesser.

3. Welcome

Great climate, great food – and great people… The Jalisco region of Mexico is well-known for its hospitality, sightseeing and sporting spirit. The region is set to develop one of the top archery centres in the country to promote the sport among locals and tourists.

4. Iconic

Versus MX’s qualification and elimination venue for 2017 is the 3 de Marzo stadium, a Guadalajara University soccer stadium in Zapopan with a capacity of 25,000. Semifinal and final matches are scheduled in the Plaza de las Americas – an incredible backdrop in the centre of the city, where tickets to watch the finals will be free.

That building in the background is the Basilica of Zapopan, constructed in the 18th century.

5. Prizes

More than USD $30,000 is up for grabs for the top three archers in each of the four main competition categories at Versus MX 2017 – compound and recurve, men and women.

Whether in the running for money or looking for the perfect archery holiday destination, Versus MX is one world-class tournament that’s open to all and should be on your calendar.

Versus MX takes place from 29 March to 2 April 2017 in Zapopan, Mexico.