The crack of gunshots split the September afternoon stillness when more than 30 competitors lined up the sights of their rifles against man made targets for a chance to bring home a Thanksgiving turkey.
The turkey shoot, held Sept. 10 at the gun club range southeast of Rimbey was a joint effort by Rimbey Fish and Game Association and Blindman Valley Rod and Gun Club.
The event attracted 32 participants and several onlookers were on hand to cheer them on.
Allan Muddle and Rob Schultz worked together to organize the event and both were pleased with the volunteer help and the turnout.
“We were quite happy,” said Muddle. “We are already thinking about having another one next year.”
He said safety was a primary concern for everyone involved and holding the turkey shoot at the range ensured that safety would be a priority.
“It is a safe, secure facility and it worked very well,” said Muddle.
Schultz agreed that the event went smoothly.
“There was lots of smiling, happy faces out there,’’ he said. “Everyone had fun and it was very simple to organize.”
Mike Jarvis from Bashaw won the first ‘gong’ event, which required hitting a four- inch steel circle attached to a frame with string. He hit the circle at 35 yards using a .22-calibre rifle.
“I guess I’m just lucky,” he said. “It was my first ever competition.”
The 23-year-old was pleased to have won a turkey. “I guess I’m having Thanksgiving.”
Muddle won the second ‘gong’ event, along bringing home a turkey.
“We will have to invite some company to help us eat it,” he said.
The winner of the men’s competition was Fred Schultz, and Scott Beaulieu won the open category.
Josh Schultz won the youth category and Rocky Armstrong was the winner in the 50-yard long shot.
The women’s competition was won by Elaine Neilly.