Why Shooting Sports are Growing
Shooting sports hold a respected place within America’s history. So how did the pastime first begin in our country?
Pioneers began testing their marksmanship back in the 1700s. Frontiersman wanted to test their shot and improve their aim in order to effectively hunt and protect their land. For practice, the men started shooting at an identified mark…usually an “x” on wood or a tree knot.
The rest, as they say, is history.
What started with frontiersman shooting at trees has evolved into a respected and popular sport with formal competitions and professional teams. Today, over 50 million Americans participate in shooting sports annually.
Education is a key contributor to the growth of shooting sports. Winchester and Hillsdale College are huge supporters of the outdoor activity. Our dedication to creating educational opportunities and fostering successful shooting sports programs have helped attract new shooters across the country.
Along with the support and sponsorship at Hillsdale College, Winchester spearheads additional shooting sports initiatives. The official Winchester/NRA Marksmanship Qualification program is permanently endowed by Winchester. The program helps people young and old develop their skills and take a variety of shooting courses. Winchester also serves as a co-sponsor of seminars and shooting camps at Hillsdale College, including the annual Ladies for Liberty and Couples for Liberty seminars and shooting camps.
Through education, passion and commitment, shooting sports can continue to grow and attract new participants as a thriving, fun, competitive activity for families and friends.
(Note: Source for frontier facts: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/olympics/longterm/shooting/shthist.htm)
Watch the related Winchester Life episode.
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