Hi everyone. I want to start this column by introducing you to the 2022 Illinois All State team.
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For those of you not familiar with Illinois shooting, trust me when I say this is a formidable group of shooters. Congratulations to all of you!
Next, I want to acknowledge some shooters that have reached milestones in their careers. James Martin and Greg Hogue have shot 25,000 Handicap targets; Jay Miller has shot 25,000 Singles targets; Mike Hathaway has shot 50,000 Doubles targets and Tim Hays has shot 75,000 Singles targets. Well done all you guys!
Finally, I want to tell you about a gem of a small, two trap club I shot at a few weeks ago. Lake Fork Sportsmen's Club is located about 25 miles east of Decatur, IL, off of Route 36. When I pulled in, I found a clean, well-maintained club where the members were busy setting up the two fields. The shoot started on time, and everything ran smoothly throughout the day. It reminded me so much of the little clubs my dad and I shot at when I was a kid. Simply put, it was a relaxing time with good friends, good targets and I had a really good time. I know it's fun to go to large shoots, but let's not forget that small clubs have their own unique enjoyable experience. Tony Jones manages the club, and you can find the contact information for the club on the ISTA web page if you think you would like to give them a try. Trust me, you will not regret it.
By the time you read this it will be December, so everyone, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Next month I'll introduce you to the 2022 Illinois All-Americans. Support your local clubs.
Bill Duncan, ATA Delegate