Sport of Paintball Takes Off

Hudson - Paintball is no romp in the park, for these players at Gator Paintball in Hudson. They are serious about the game. Paintball is addictive.

Tim Altman, Gator Paintball Owner
When you're out there fishing and you catch that big fish...that adrenalin rush you get in that one second or two seconds...well, for me, that's how paintball is the entire game.

Tim is one of 3 generations of Altmans, who are paintball junkies. His teenage daughter, Amanda, just loves to shoot people, even though it's just with paint that washes off. And Amanda's grandfather, Bernie, has taken up the sport.

Bernie Altman, Paintball-playing grandfather
A lot of people are under the impression that it's a young person's sport...but you know you're not over the hill once you pass 40 and it's great exercise.

Although it costs only about $15-$20 for a day of paintball at Gator Paintball, the equipment can be pricy. You can buy a starter's set at Break 50 Paintball in Tarpon Springs, for about $200. But if you get serious about the sport, then a helmet, jersey, pants, and a high-end gun with paintballs, could set you back $1500.