Hello everyone, we hope you had as good of a time at the Nationals as did we. Let me tell you, on Wednesday, as we were making preparations, I would not have given a chance that it was going to be anything but very ugly. From what I could tell in speaking to everyone around the country, the wind had become almost unbearable. I know it had been at our range and, now here it was blowing miserably in San Antonio. However, the good Lord seemed to smile upon us and granted beautiful weather throughout the tournament. And what a great match we had……………..how about eighty-eight teams, the largest turnout we have ever had! I could not have imagined a more fitting tribute to our beloved Ken Sedlecky, no doubt he was looking down and smiling……….knowing him, he had a bit to do with the weather as well! It was indeed a fond farewell to him and all that he meant, not only to STC, but shooting sports in general. I would also just like to bring to all of your attention, the extremely generous hospitality of the entire Sedlecky family. Most of you are aware that the sponsored the delicious banquet dinner, but for those of you who aren’t, it is just a reminder to keep them in your thoughts and prayers. Everyone who really knew Ken, felt the void that was very present at the Nationals, due to his not being there. I can only imagine how difficult it must have been for his extended family and the gamut of emotions that they had to deal with. It is just fitting that we salute this incredible family in remembrance of the enormous loss they bare and in tribute to their tenacity. Please join me in wishing them peace and heartfelt appreciation for all they have done and continue to do.
Once again the match witnessed exciting competition throughout the range of classes. It was exciting to see so many sub-junior, junior and ladies teams competing. Mike Hampton created a new “Ken Sedlecky Memorial” side match and it proved to be an enjoyable addition that will hopefully continue. The two man entries just continue to grow and the STCA will no doubt take note and increase their level of recognition for this important segment of our sport. We had three Industry teams this year and it was a good match with them. We had a new winner there, the Winchester bunch and Ruger served notice that they intend to be a player as well.
Perhaps one of the most encouraging things that happened, was the election of new officers to lead the Sportsmans Team Challenge Association to greater heights. Jason Massey was elected President and there is no doubt that he will be a tremendous leader. Robert Massey was elected Vice President and together, their expertise is unquestionable. They have been involved in shooting sports for years, the STC for years; have extensive knowledge in match preparation and logistics, with the compassion and desire to see that STC prospers and grows. Please take the time to welcome and encourage them. Another important gentleman was brought on board to assist in improving our “IT” efforts, as well as the general logistics of the match. He is Clay Autery, he has an extensive computer background, is thoroughly motivated by STC and no doubt will be an important asset to the furtherance of our sport. Of course Mike Love remained as the treasurer and web master, he and Clay will no doubt create new methods of improving the behind the scenes flow of the STC. Kathy and I have no intent of walking away. On the contrary, we will offer our service to the new leaders in any capacity, in hopes of raising the bar yet another level. How about every one of us making a commitment to introduce STC to our friends and setting the goal of one hundred teams for 2009!?!
We had really tremendous competition at every level, with eight ladies teams, five juniors and five sub-juniors! Now we just need to maintain the momentum and each of us strive to bring a new team next year. Can you just imagine how tremendous that would be, to have that much competition and excitement at one event? The STCA wishes to make a statement that we are committed to our sport and to the community. Towards that end, four scholarships were awarded to STC Junior competitors, a $1000.00 donation was made to the local Ronald McDonald House and a $3,500.00 donation to Armor 4 Troops. We will try to maintain these worthy efforts and give back as token of our appreciation for all that we have.
Next, I want to say thank you to so many volunteers that helped make the STC possible, without your valuable assistance, we could not make it. So many have given over the years, too many to try to name individual names. You know who you are and how much Kathy, Mike and I truly appreciate you. Now we are finally making a definite step forward and we need yet more and stronger volunteers. I would hope that we will be able to more definitely define our plans and call for specific needs earlier on, so that those needs will be promptly filled. Please make it a matter of regular practice to watch the web site for specifics on this and other important issues.
Lastly, thank you from the bottom of my heart to our incredible sponsors! Smith & Wesson, McMillan Group International, Burris, Leupold, Winchester Ammo, Ruger, White Flyer, NSSF, Browning, Clark Custom Guns, C-More, Storm Case, Volquartsen, Hi Viz, Dillon Precision, ATK, Midland Radio, Boyt Harness / Bob Allen, Eley Ammo, Zanders, NRA, Lyman and AfricanElephant Hair Bracelets. WOW! these fantastic industry stalwarts have stood by the STCA and without them, we could not have hosted the most incredible shooting tournament in the world. When you are shopping for new product, please take time to remember those that have so graciously supported our sport.
I have truly enjoyed being a part of this effort to host what I believe is the single most enjoyable shooting sport in the world. There is no doubt that it has the promise to reach even greater heights and together we can make it happen. Thank each and everyone of you who have participated and I look forward to shooting with you for years to come.