Chambana Sun

Illinois 4-H recently hosted its statewide competitions in archery and shotgun, providing teenage members the opportunity to showcase their skills. Alex Paul, a 4-H Shooting Sports Teen Ambassador from Wayne County, participated in both events and secured first place in the shotgun trap shooting competition. "The 2024 Illinois 4-H State Shooting competitions were amazing experiences for everyone involved," said Alex. "Not only did youth get to exhibit their skills, but as an Ambassador I got the privilege of seeing the connections made between youth, parents, coaches, and volunteers, showing how the Illinois 4-H Shooting Sports program can bring us all together."

The archery event took place on September 21 at Pekin Archers in Pekin, Illinois. Participants competed in recurve bow and compound bow divisions across three categories: 3-D, Field, and FITA shooting. The top four senior level scores came from Isaac and Ethan Mohr of Henderson County 4-H, Tate Sundberg of LaSalle County 4-H, and Jake Glasgow of Brown-Schuyler 4-H. LaSalle County claimed victory with the highest team score.

On September 28, Brittany Shooting Park near Bunker Hill hosted the shotgun competition where participants shot 100 rounds of trap. Following Alex Paul were Jakeb Paul of Wayne County in second place, Benaiah Bremer of Madison County in third place, and Henry Reid of Adams County in fourth place. Adams County achieved recognition for having four high-scoring shooters contributing to the highest overall county team total.

Curt Sinclair from University of Illinois Extension provided this information about the event.

Illinois 4-H is part of University of Illinois Extension's flagship youth development program under the College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences. It aims to develop true leaders who are prepared for life today and future careers by offering guidance through hands-on activities that promote leadership skills.