by Kristin Kruse
Clear blue skies and a stunning view of the Bitterroot Mountain Range was the setting for the 20th Annual Shriners Shoot hosted by the Bitterroot Sporting Club on Saturday, May 3. For the past 20 years the two organizations have worked together to raise funds for families who need financial support while dealing with the expenses involved with traveling to the Shriners Children’s Hospital in Spokane. Funds go directly to locals, and cover their travel expenses such as gas, hotels and food. The total raised this year was $10,116, according to Club Treasurer Cheryl Wallis. Seventy-eight shooters came out to participate and support the cause, including people from Missoula, Butte, Dillon and even Washington. The Club donates all of the targets and the Shriners donate lunch for the event, which is included in the $50 fee to enter the tournament. There is also a raffle and silent auction with dozens of prizes donated by local merchants. This year there was a wide variety of prizes to be won, including 15 pounds of bacon, a Hamilton Pack gift certificate, home baked goods and much more.
A Bitterroot Blaster competes in 5 stand. Photo by Kristin Kruse.
“A huge thank you to all businesses and families that donated this year. That is how we make our money,” stated Wallis. Over the last 20 years this event has raised $170,000, and it has all stayed local.
As covered in a previous article in the Bitterroot Star, the Sporting Club has lost their 100-year lease on the property they have utilized since the 1940s. Club President Larry Ward has been a member since 1992, and is an avid shooter and competitor all over the Northwest. Ward spoke about the challenges they are having in finding a new location.
“There is no question that we have to move, we need a new place,” said Ward. “The problem is that everything is so expensive and we do not have the money to purchase property. What we are looking for is a piece of land that is at least 15-20 acres that someone would be willing to lease to us. There have been offers but the problem is that if the property is close to a neighborhood the idea gets shot down pretty quickly. Most people do not want a shooting range in their back yard.”
According to Ward there is grant money available to help cover the cost of infrastructure for a new club, however, one of the stipulations in receiving that money is that the club must have a minimum 50-year lease on the land.
Club President Larry Ward, left, with Shriner Shoot competitors. Photo by Kristin Kruse.
“We have been looking so hard and we have two years until we have to be off of the property. We are willing to sit down with anyone to discuss leasing property,” said Ward.
In addition to the annual Shriners Shoot fundraiser, the Club is involved with the community in many ways. They work with several local organizations such as the Bitterroot Blasters, Teller Refuge, Triple Creek and multiple churches by providing a fun, safe and supportive environment for sport shooting enthusiasts.
If there is anyone who has piece of property that might be a good match for the club and is willing to lease, contact the club directly at 406-363-2656 or email Gchamilton@yahoo.com