I am writing this in May and trap shoots are popping up like mushrooms in Illinois. Covid-19 restrictions are finally being lifted and we are getting out to shoot. The only flies in the ointment are the shell shortage and unusually cold and windy weather. Let's hope both these situations work themselves out quickly.
I have 3 Illinois shooters that have reached milestones in their careers. Thomas Bates has shot 50,000 handicap targets, Frank Bentley III has shot 100,000 singles and William Reardon has shot 100,000 combined targets. I know I sound like a broken record but dedication to our sport is always impressive.
I want to take a moment to mention a story about Frank. Several years ago Frank won the Illinois State Doubles Championship. This happened right at Father's Day. Frank dedicated this win to his father, who is also a trap shooter. I don't think Frank II could have been any more happy and proud after Frank III did this for his dad. Stories like this make our sport so great!
I could not make it to the Missouri State Trap shoot but I have been following the scores and Illinois shooters have showed up. We have won many categories, classes and yardage groups. See the shoot report for who has won what.
Finally, I am happy to report that we are collecting money for the new Hall of Fame as more and more people are buying bricks to line the entrance of the new building. Please check out the link on the ISTA web page to buy your own brick and be a part of Illinois trap shooting history.
It's time for me to go shooting so I will see you next month. Shoot well and stay safe.
Bill Duncan, ATA Delegate