Recap: 2024 Grand American Opening Ceremonies – Sparta, Illinois

The 125th Grand American kicked off on Monday, August 5, 2024, with a lively evening of food, dignitaries, and fireworks at the World Shooting & Recreational Complex in Sparta, Illinois. The grandstand tent was packed as shooters and fans gathered for the celebration. Fried chicken, ham sandwiches, fruits, and veggies fueled the crowd while the Blue and Gray teams signed posters before the ceremonies began.

Dignitaries & Traditions

Lynn Gipson opened by introducing Sparta officials, ATA Executive Committee members, and past ATA presidents. The Illinois National Guard’s Color Squad presented the colors, followed by the National Anthem. Recognitions included Grand sponsors, target attainment awards, and shooters who earned milestone attendance patches—topped by Dave Berlet for his 80th Grand.

Blue & Gray Shoot-Out – Youth Teams

Winchester and White Flyer revived the crowd-favorite Blue & Gray Shoot-Out. Youth stars like Raylee Bishop, Wyatt Debrie, Cole Henning, Dagen Voigtman, Dale Stockdale, Anna Rawe, Cody Meridith, Tyler Honnold, Shane Biser, and Robert Harden squared off in a creative elimination format with “golden tickets” that let them back into the game by hitting springing teal-style targets. After dramatic rounds, Tyler Honnold emerged as the winner, with Shane Biser second and Dagen Voigtman third.

Blue & Gray Shoot-Out – Open Teams

The Open division featured legends and champions, including Richard Marshall Jr., Ryan Glow, Garrett Helms, Peter Walker, Joseph Charnigo, Keith Ditto, Zach Nannini, Herbert Lewis, Scott Obenchain, and Bruce Davis. After a series of eliminations, Joe Charnigo repeated as Shoot-Out Champion for the second year in a row, defeating Herb Lewis and Ryan Glow. Fans also got in on the fun—acting as cheerleaders for each shooter and winning prizes alongside their favorites.

A Night to Remember

The evening wrapped up with surprises and fireworks:

• Marriage proposal: Cooper Willis proposed to Danielle Baugh, marking the second year in a row love took center stage at the Grand (following Scott and Anne Obenchain’s wedding in 2023).

• Fireworks show: Nearly 30 minutes of choreographed fireworks lit up the sky, complete with music, laughter, and the joy of families gathered together.

Final Take

From milestone recognitions to youth stars, Hall of Famers, and even a marriage proposal, the 2024 Opening Ceremonies set the tone for a Grand American to remember. With food, camaraderie, fun competitions, and fireworks, Sparta once again delivered an opening night that blended tradition with spectacle.

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