Each spring, the Old West Invitational Turkey Shoot (OWITS) is held in Hulett, WY, with Devils Tower National Monument as the backdrop. The event is a cooperative effort with a two-pronged goal, according to the event’s website; raise funds for two great non-profits and promote wildlife conservation in Wyoming. Proceeds from the event are split 90 percent/10 percent between the Greater Hulett Community Center (GHCC) and the Wyoming Wildlife Foundation (WWF). WWF is a component fund of the Wyoming Community Foundation and uses their portion of the proceeds to implement wildlife habitat projects across the state. In addition, GHCC uses their funds to maintain the community center and provide community services and support for the town that 383 people call home.
The OWITS is an exclusive event, based on a one-shot turkey hunting competition. Nearly 100 hunters, including youth hunters participate each year and enjoy a guided turkey hunt. Participants may even run into a celebrity or two. OWITS has welcomed NFL and MLB players, Olympians, and multiple outdoor television personalities in past years.
During the day hunters can partake in a little friendly competition at the fairgrounds with the Annie Oakley shooting competition or relax with a round of golf at the Golf Club at Devils Tower. Also, participants can take part in exciting evening events, including a calcutta, raffles, and bid on items at the fundraiser auction.
This year’s special guests included Wyoming’s 33rd Governor, Mark Gordon, singing duo The Swon Brothers, Western country music artist Tris Munsick & The Innocents, as well as veterans John Dunbar, John Costello, who served as Master of Ceremonies, Sidney L. Keller, April Hanley-Grady, Tray Lange, Brian Grady, Ted Emmons, Tim Hower and Richard Watson.
Want to know more? Visit www.oldwestturkeyshoot.org.
