4-H Shooting Sports Aims At Getting Back To Normal

Brad Gill | June 24, 2021

The 4-H Project S.A.F.E. shooting sports competitions made a run at getting back to normal during the winter and spring of 2021, although it’ll be at least 2022 before participant numbers make a solid rebound.

“COVID-19 disrupted our Georgia 4-H program significantly when UGA suspended all activities on March 13, 2020,” said Craven Hudson, extension 4-H specialist who heads-up Project S.A.F.E.

Once COVID hit the scene in March 2020, Georgia 4-H quickly transitioned to offering virtual opportunities in all of its program areas.

“There really is no good virtual option that replaces the fun and excitement of shooting firearms and archery,” said Craven. “During the gap in our program, some youth moved to other activities.”

Thankfully the 2021 season saw the return of in-person shooting competitions, although competitor numbers weren’t what they were prior to the pandemic.

“Some shifted to other youth shooting programs that were less restrictive than what Georgia 4-H could offer due to university protocols,” said Craven. “The ammunition shortage and high prices when ammo was found factored into lower participation, as well.”

Thankfully, Craven reports that each shooting discipline championship was held this spring, which certainly helps as he looks at a stronger year in 2022.

For more on the 4-H Project S.A.F.E. program or to learn how to get involved in 4-H, call your county extension office, or go to www.georgia4h.org/safe.

Dayne Cadwell with Dodge County 4-H was top overall senior shooter at the May 29-30 State, Trap & Sporting Clays event in Savannah.

Thomas Freemanwith Columbia County 4-H was top overall junior shooter at the May 29-30 State, Trap & Sporting Clays event in Savannah.

Pierce County Air Rifle team.

The Morgan County 4-H recurve archery team recently received a state flag from State Representative Dave Belton. The flag traveled with them to Grand Island, Neb. when they competed in the 4-H National Shooting Sports Championship, June 20-25. Earlier in the year, the team placed first at the State Archery Match at Rock Eagle. Team members are (from left) Tim Smith, Dawson Martin, Coach Danny Pincus, Daniel Lott, Thomas Smith.