Join The Fun At The 30th Annual Chase Hawks Trap Shoot

The 30th annual Chase Hawks Memorial Trap Shoot is August 9 in Billings. The event promises a great time for shooters of all abilities, all for a fantastic cause. It will take place at the Billings Trap Club facility near Lake Elmo.

Trap shooting is one heck of a sport.

Trap shooting originated in the 18th century as a method for bird hunters to hone their aim, according to the U.S. Shooting Sports Association. Hunters would launch clay pigeons from spring-loaded devices (a.k.a. “traps”) and try to blast 'em midair. Hence the name: trap shooting.

Read More: 10 Game-Changing Things Born in Montana

By the late 1800s, the hobby had taken off and turned into a full-fledged competitive sport here in the U.S. Shooters would gather, show off their skills, and swap stories over a few cold ones. It caught on fast, so fast that it eventually made its way to the Olympics.

Annie Oakley knew how to handle a shotgun.

Even Annie Oakley got in on the action. The legendary Western sharpshooter competed in the Grand American World Trap Championships well into her later years, with her last competition in 1925. Oakley's talent with a shotgun not only wowed crowds but helped inspire a generation of women to get into the sport.

Trap shooting has come a long way since then, with advances in equipment and technique. But the heart-pounding thrill of shattering a flying clay disc? That part hasn’t changed a bit.

Take Your Shot at the Chase Hawks Memorial Trap Shoot

Now’s your chance to give it a try—even if you’ve never touched a shotgun at the 30th annual Chase Hawks Memorial Trap Shoot. I’ll be honest—I’m no expert. I don’t bird hunt, and my shotgun mostly stays in the house for home defense. But this shoot is for everyone. Beginners, pros, and anyone in between are welcome. Chase Hawks organizers say:

Experts and beginners are welcome here. Teams are assembled by handicap and experience and handicapped by the first round.

Translation: You don’t have to be Annie Oakley to have fun.

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There are some great prizes up for grabs:

• Five new shotguns for top-finishing entrants
• A special prize for the sixth-place team (gotta love an underdog prize!)
• Youth division with a guaranteed shotgun prize
• Raffles, door prizes, and a big ol’ BBQ when the shootin’s done

Cost to register is $70 per person (includes shells) or $60 if you bring your ammo. A limited number of loaner shotguns are available for those who don’t have one. Youth participants are encouraged, too. You can register online, by phone, or in person.

Chase Hawks has another beloved Billings event coming up on Labor Day Weekend — Burn the Point. Mark your calendars. You don’t want to miss either of these.