Chickasaw youth hit the mark during the annual Tanumpo Hosa Apisa camp (Gun Shoot Straight) conducted June 23-24 in Ada, Okla.
More than 40 students, ages 10-18, spent two days at the tribal gym and Lighthorse Police Department perfecting their aim with Olympic style rifles and pistols, as well as a compound bow.
Led by Lighthorse Police officers and certified instructors, this unique camp gives students an opportunity to learn gun safety and responsibility, while also learning proper shooting techniques.
Eleven-year-old Samantha Chapman had her first experience with firearms at the camp.
"I learned how to handle a gun safely, and I improved at archery," she said.
"It was a great experience and a good opportunity to practice with a bow," said Calee Ragsdale. The 11-year-old Ada student won "Most Improved" in her age group.
"I hope I get to come back next year."
Most of the days were spent shooting a CO2-powered pellet gun from a distance of 10 meters. A partner would spot the target through binoculars, and help the shooter adjust their shot for accuracy.
The highlight of the day was a marksmanship competition between the campers. Campers competed with rifles and pistols to achieve a combined overall score based on shooting accuracy.
Jace Ryan, 11, a Wynnewood, Okla., sixth grader, can't wait to use the marksmanship skills he acquired when he hunts deer and turkey this fall.
"I will use what I learned a lot. I knew how to shoot a gun but I had never shot a bow."
Ashton Rawlins, 12, of Stonewall, just had one comment when asked about camp. "I love Marksmanship Camp," she exclaimed.
Still other students enjoyed working with Lighthorse Police officers.
"We got to see what they do," said Jayson Morgan.
Eleven-year-old Kaad Gore, Stratford, Okla., learned how to use correct targets when he shoots bows and firearms. He also learned new techniques for shooting a bow from the friendly instructors.
"The instructors were knowledgeable and nice."
At the camp's conclusion, participants tried out their newly-acquired skills with a game of Lazer tag at Lazer Zone.
For more information about youth camps, contact the Chickasaw Nation Department of Youth Services at 580-310-6620 or visit www.chickasaw.net/youthcamps.
