Thousands of young people from across Arkansas are competing in the state trap shooting state championships. Stakes are high, first place teams walk away with $7500 in scholarship money. And if that's not enough pressure, advancing could get you a full ride to college.
"Just crush any target and you're in business," said Chuck Woodson.
Chuck Woodson of Arkansas Game & Fish says the trap shooting state championships brings out the very best shooters in all of Arkansas. 15-year-old Brett Long and his team, are the National Champions from Harrisburg, Arkansas.
Aside from sportsmanship, Brett says trap shooting gives him tons of confidence. "It really does help your self esteem, other kids look up to you, you look up to other kids who shoot better, you know it really helps you out," Long said.
"It gave us more confidence, it taught us what our ability is, and showed us that we shouldn't doubt ourself," said Jordan Harper.
"It's such a close knit group, they shoot, travel, and compete in different states together. It started out as a small school group, but now they really have become a band of brothers," said Chuck Woodson.
Trap shooting is not only a sport offered in 83 Arkansas high schools, it's offered at several colleges as well. That's why several college recruiters will be here Friday, looking for the best of the best.
"The U.S. Army is looking at them, Texas A&M, Mississippi, and Tennessee," said Chuck Woodson.
Lisa Anderson's son and daughter are competing, she says this sport has brought them closer as a family. "We would love to see a full ride for him, it's very exciting for us," said Lisa Anderson.
Organizers say trap shooting doesn't discriminate, boys, girls, short and tall can shoot. And shoot well.
First place in the senior division is a $7500 scholarship to be split by the team. Second place is a five thousand dollar scholarship. Arkansas Game & Fish coordinators say the program stresses gun safety.
