Chamber hosts successful Clay Shoot

The Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce’s first annual clay shoot was marked a success, but it was also the beginning of a new opportunity in Howard County. Now that the first event is under the belt, a permanent set up is now available opening up the opportunity of others who would like to host charity events or take part in a small group clay shoot.

“We are very grateful for Bob Price getting behind this clay shoot. We are also grateful to see our Chamber members step up and participate in this event to support local businesses,” Fox said. “This town really seems to stick together when it comes to supporting each other.”

According to Fox, the turnout was great. For the first year, there were 17 teams participating and a great support base from the local business community.

“A special Thank You to Bob Price and his crew at Moss Creek Ranch. Being our first Clay Shoot, I feel that things went very smooth,” Debbye Valverde, Executive Director of the Chamber, said.

During the award ceremony Anderson Kennels was named 1st Place winner; Rick Morrow’s team took 2nd Place; and Howard County 4-H claimed 3rd Place. The one Platinum Sponsor, Jet Specialty, was followed by seven Station Sponsors. Lunch was sponsored by Delek USA, Oncor and ALSA, which allowed those taking part in the fundraiser to enjoy a hearty burger after the competition. Prize sponsors included: Bulldog Steel/metal Solutions, Moss Creek Ranch and Expedition Royalty; all three sponsors supported the Clay Shoot on other levels as well. Through the support of Lee’s Rental and Jezco the participants were able to relax at tables under canopies while registering and eating.

“When we started looking for a place to host the tournament this year we were out of luck as the Country Club closed and the municipal course was not allowing tournaments at that time due to Covid,” Clint Fox, Chamber Board Member and Vice President of Community Development, said. “We decided to put on a Clay Shoot. We knew there would be some growing pains as it is our first one, but decided to go ahead and give it a try.”

The support of Chamber Board members and local businesses made the first event a success.

“I encourage any local businesses that are not currently chamber members to take a look at the huge support our Chamber with the help of Debbye, along with our chamber members, support other businesses and make sure Big

Spring is a friendly and prosperous place to grow your business,” Fox said.

“We could not have picked a better day to have this event. Thanks to all the sponsors and teams that signed up. We want this to be an annual event, so see everyone next year,” Valverde said.

Those wanting to inquire about becoming a Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce member can reach out to the Chamber office at 432-263-7641.

Courtesy photo The winners of the first Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce Clay Shoot pose for a picture after their victory. The team, representing Anderson Kennels, consists of Andy Anderson, Brandon Anderson, Kason Anderson, and (not shown) Stan Baker.

Courtesy photos Pictured are the second-place (left) and third-place (right) Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce Clay Shoot teams. At left is Rick Morrow’s team, consisting of Morrow, Bill Luxton, Ceasar Martinez and Tracy Spinks. At right is the Howard County 4-H team consisting of Colt Woodall, Brandon Kelley, Wiley Gaskins and Kirby Huffman. Congratulations!