The Colorado 4-H Shooting Sports Program trains members in the responsible and ethical use of archery and firearms. Here in La Plata County, our 4-H shooting program has grown tremendously in the last five years.
The program has increased enrollment, trained adult volunteers and participated in local, state and national shooting-sports competitions. These accomplishments were made possible through the hard work and dedication of our adult leaders. These volunteers give their time, money and commitment to work with youth members. They establish positive youth-adult partnerships that make a lasting influence on so many young lives.
In particular, I would like to highlight Super Shooters 4-H Club leader and La Plata County Shooting Sports superintendent Tim Karp and 4-H member Tristan Swayze.
Last year, Tristan qualified for the National 4-H Shooting Sports competition to be held this summer in Grand Island, Nebraska. Karp will accompany him and coach the state 4-H shotgun team. In preparation, Tristan and Karp will travel to Pueblo numerous times in the coming months to practice with the state 4-H team.
Tristan joined Karp’s Super Shooters club last year. He values how 4-H has taught him responsibility and dedication.
Tristan also says 4-H has given him something to focus on and keeps him busy. He currently is working toward his home-school diploma, and 4-H has helped him meet new people. The Shooting Sports Program has allowed him to have fun competing against kids with common interests.
Karp’s passion for shooting sports and youth development has guided Tristan’s success. Karp is responsible for organizing shooting practices throughout the year, planning club meetings and overseeing county competitions.
“Tim is a real good guy,” Tristan said.
The practices have helped Tristan work on target patterns and consistency. He tries to mimic the skills Karp displays, which in turn, has made him a better shooter. I’m also confident Tristan is mimicking the positive adult-role model in Karp. This, at the end of the day, is what 4-H is all about.
To offset the costs of preparing for and attending the national competition, we are asking for donations for travel and supply expenses.
This is a tremendous opportunity for Tristan and Karp to represent La Plata County 4-H. If you or someone you know would like to donate, make a check out to La Plata County 4-H Shooting Sports and send or deliver to the La Plata County Extension Office, 2500 Main Ave., Durango, CO 81301. 4-H is a 501(c)3 tax deductible organization.
Thanks so much in advance for supporting our shooting-sports program.
felsengh@co.laplata.co.us or 382-6463. Greg Felsen is La Plata County 4-H youth development agent.
