State Shooting Sports Tournament draws large participation
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EmailThe Michigan 4-H Shooting Sports Tournament drew a large number of participants and continues to build life skills for participants.
The 2015 Michigan 4-H Shooting Sports State Tournament took place in August at the Blue Water Sportsman’s Club in Kimball, Michigan. There were 539 participants registered in the disciplines of 3-D archery, target archery, shotgun (trap and skeet), rifle (BB, pellet and .22) and muzzleloader.
The Michigan 4-H Shooting Sports Tournament is an opportunity for youth participants to showcase their skills and talents in shooting sports disciplines within their appropriate category and division. To participate in the “state shoot,” competitors need to have only participated in a competitive shoot prior to the state shoot in that year. 4-H youth from 37 counties travelled to compete at this year’s event. Each county 4-H program may only have a limited number of participants. Some counties have a qualifier event to determine their representation at the state tournament.
The day provided clear skies, warm temperature and a light breeze – perfect conditions! There were lots of excited and nervous shooters along with thousands of spectators there to support and cheer for their favorite 4-H shooting sports competitor. Medals were awarded to the top three finishers in each event. Please visit the Michigan 4-H Shooting Sports Tournament website to view all results.
While the day had its winners, the event itself provided a great hands-on learning experience in competitive shooting for all youth involved. Participants arrived with high expectations, not only for how they would score, but also for the friendships they would make and the experience they would gain helping them become better shooters. Participants left with a sense of accomplishment knowing they are part of a youth development program that helps them build strong character traits and life skills.
Next year’s tournament site has yet to be determined, but the date can be expected to be in early to mid-August. Be sure to regularly check the Michigan 4-H Shooting Sports website for updates about time and location for the state shoot.
The Michigan 4-H Shooting Sports Board of Directors and training team are very excited to offer this opportunity to 4-H youth annually. The entire state tournament planning team is proud to make this quality event available to 4-H youth. Many thanks go out to the numerous volunteers who provided assistance at the event and to those who support and provide leadership for local 4-H Shooting Sports Clubs. The Michigan 4-H Shooting Sports Program and tournament are an excellent example of how Michigan State University Extension youth programs help youth be the best they can be.
