An event that often introduces youth and families to air rifle returned last week.
The AMA Sportsmen’s Association presented its annual “Turkey Shoot” last Wednesday night with 138 shooters on hand to participate. Everyone who passed through the doors of the AMA Sportsmen’s Association was given a chance to shoot at the target.
The target had a picture of a turkey on it, hence the name of the event. Scores were tallied and top winners received prizes.
“We’re starting the year off by promoting shooting,” said air rifle chair Jim Fox.
“This is a night where we can give back to the community. It’s all free. It’s just a family thing.”
Fox paid tribute to Bob Dube, a long-time advocate for air rifle and club member, who passed away recently.
“He was one of the guys who made air rifle what it is today,” said Fox.
The event helps get children active and off the couch and into something competitive. Fox said he has been involved with it for about ten years.
“It’s a good thing to get parents included and involved,” said Fox.
The 138 shooters this year was a slight increase over 2024, as there were 133 shooters last year.
“It’s always a pretty big turnout,” he said.
Club members volunteered to help act as coaches and worked with participants to ensure they were shooting correctly. There was also a free meal offered, with that consisting of deer chili and hot dogs.
Air rifle is every Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the AMA Sportsmen’s Club. The cost is $3 per week to help cover the cost of targets and pellets. Fox said a lot of members have a hand in making the sport a key component of the club.
“Hopefully we can maintain Bob Dube’s dream of families getting together and promoting shooting,” he said. “Hopefully we can create some good hunters.”
Archery is another program offered at the club, with 3-D shoots taking place in the fall and spring.
Popular “turkey shoot” returns to AMA Sportsmen’s Association
By Ron Giofu
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