ACS Fundraiser Helps Shoot Down Kids Cancer

The annual “Shoot Down Kids Cancer” fundraiser once again generated a significant donation for the American Cancer Society – Marco Island.

Held on St. Patrick’s Day at Gulf Coast Clays in Port of the Islands, 87 shooters took part in the clay target shooting contest, raising $40,000 to support pediatric cancer research. The proceeds came from entry fees, sponsorships, donations, a raffle and an auction.

Known as “sporting clays,” the sport is designed to simulate hunting, with participants moving between stations arranged in a course. At each of the 15 stations at Gulf Coast Clays, the clay targets are mechanically hurled into the air at heights to simulate the movement of rabbits, birds, deer and other commonly hunted animals.

“It’s great that we can help the guys from the American Cancer Society and the people that are putting the shoot together to help them raise money because it really is a worthy cause,” said Corey Rugg, Gulf Coast Clays General Manager. “I think this event in particular, just like any other event, everybody is 100 percent welcome. It’s a friendly, safe environment that’s good for everybody to come out and try, even beginners.” Top Finishers In Team Competition

(compiles a team’s four best scores)

First Place: “Stanley Steemer” with a score of 379. Wes Bates – 94, Peter Kallie – 99, Bert Baumgartner – 98, Dan Cluff – 88, and Steve Roleter – 48. The 2nd team: “Paradise Shooting GNS America” with a score of 375. Wade Deal – 99, Budde Reed – 94, Steve Arbaugh – 92, Todd Deal – 90, and Danny Belyev – 81. The 3rd team: “Old guns” with a score of 369. Tony Bour – 98, Bob Rebbec – 94, Gary Mesnick – 89, Dennis Patrick – 88, and Peter Poulsen – 85. Top Male Finisher: Peter Kallie – 99 Top Female Finisher: Gayle Campbell – 83 Top Junior Finisher: Cooper Hodsdon – 85.