Straight Shotz BB Team Competes in Toombs County Area Qualifier

Courtesy of Montgomery County 4-H

The Montgomery County 4-H Straight Shotz BB Team traveled to Lyons on Saturday, March 23, for the Toombs County Area BB Qualifier Match. The team is led by certified coaches Evelyn Carpenter, Anthony Powell, and Henry Price, and assisted by 4-H teen leader Landon Powell. The team consists of ten Montgomery County Schools students in fifth through eighth grades.

The goal of the Straight Shotz BB Team, and the Georgia 4-H Project SAFE program, is to teach valuable life skills through shooting sports. SAFE stands for shooting awareness, fun, and education. Students participating in SAFE programming “develop a sense of belonging, learn teamwork in a safe environment, and increase their concentration skills. Safety and the responsible use of firearms and archery equipment is a primary goal.”

Straight Shotz team members are Chase Ford, Easton Thigpen, Maddison Hill, Jurdan Hudson, Jonas Carpenter, Italy Thornton, Tucker Dykes, Sarah Solis, Haley Sikes, and Abel Turner.

Montgomery County had one team and two individuals compete in the area qualifier. Teams had to score a total of 1550 and individuals a total of 310 to qualify for the state match. Montgomery County’s team will advance to state. Qualifying team members are Chase Ford, Easton Thigpen, Maddison Hill, Jurdan Hudson, Jonas Carpenter, Italy Thornton, and Haley Sikes. Easton Thigpen was also recognized for earning a perfect score on the safety test administered before shooting.

Coach Evelyn Carpenter said, “I’m super proud of all of our kids and the progress they have made throughout the season. These kids have taught me as much as I’ve taught them. We’re looking forward to competing at state in a few weeks!” The qualifying team will travel to Rock Eagle 4-H Center and compete in the State BB Match on April 27, 2024. For more information on Project SAFE programs, contact your local extension office.