Youth Hunting Championships May 14 in Upton, WY
UPTON, WY –-(Ammoland.com)- A unique partnership between South Dakota and Wyoming will provide an opportunity for kids interested in the outdoors.
The Youth Hunter Education Challenge, as it’s officially called, will be held May 14 near Upton, Wyo., and young hunters do not need to qualify in a regional or district tournament to compete. All Wyoming and South Dakota youth 18 and under who have passed hunter education courses are eligible to showcase their hunting skills and probably learn a little, too.
The challenge tests youngsters in sporting clay-style trap shooting, .22 rifle, muzzleloader and archery marksmanship, wildlife identification, orienteering and hunter safety judgments.
“The challenge is designed to be fun for all participants – not just the winners,” said Curt Robertson, South Dakota’s GFP hunter education coordinator.
This is the fourth year the challenge has been hosted by the Upton Gun Club and officially sanctioned by the National Rifle Association. Winners in both age categories – 15-18 and 14 and under – are eligible to advance to the international competition to be held July 24-29 at NRA’s Whittington Center near Raton, N.M.
In addition to the South Dakota and Wyoming Game, Fish and Parks departments and the gun club, the challenge is sponsored by the Wyoming Friends of the NRA and a variety of Wyoming businesses. All participants receive prizes for competing.
In the spirit of interstate cooperation, South Dakota young hunters have been participating in the challenge since 2009.
“Because Upton is close to the border, Wyoming has let South Dakota particapants join in the fun,” Roberston said.
He adds that although the youngsters from both states participate in the same tests, they will not be competing against each other. Winners will be crowned from both states.
To participate, youngsters need to submit copies of their hunter education card, birth certificate, photo and pay a $10 entry fee. Entry forms are available by emailing Curt.Robertson@state.sd.us .
For more info, call GFP employees Curt Robertson at 605-223-7666 or Rick Rothleutner of the Upton Gun Club at 307-281-9980.