4-H BB shooters preparing for the coming district match are (front, l-r) Rebekah Hubbard, Casey Gowen, Cody McLeroy, Brenden Johnson, Catie Miller, (back) Keith Hubbard, Hannah Davis, Cody Gowen, Daniel Hackney, Blake Connell, Clayton Johnson, Jacob Hubbard, Joshua McLeroy, and Dwayne McLeroy. Wilkes County 4-H'ers recently attended the practice S.A.F.E. (Shooting Awareness, Fun, and Education) BB matches in Walton and Forsyth Counties. Over the past six months, these students have worked very hard by participating in qualifying matches across northeast Georgia to make preparations for their district match, which is scheduled for April 19 in Walton County.

The team of 4-H'ers is led by volunteers Dwayne and Tina McLeroy, Darren Pharr, Carl Miller, and Keith Hubbard. Each serves as a certified team coach and they are assisted by parents.

In Walton County, the Wilkes County 4-H S.A.F.E. BB team placed fourth overall. Jacob Hubbard was the Top Shooter for Wilkes County with a score of 362. At the Forsyth County match, Wilkes County 4.H fer Dylan Echols and Daniel Hackney led the team with their high ranking scores.

Daniel Hackney, first place 4-H BB shooter. Dylan Echols placed third overall in the sitting position with a score of 95. Daniel Hackney placed first overall in the kneeling position with a score of 97. Daniel was also the Top Shooter for Wilkes Co. with a total score of 365.

Individuals that qualify at the district match in Walton County will be eligible to compete at the state match in May. A score of 300 or more must be made at the district contest to qualify to compete at the state contest.

"We are very proud of all these outstanding shooters and wish them luck at the district match," said County Agent Audra Chapman.

Anyone interested in participating in or contributing to a 4-H shooting sports program is asked to contact the Extension officeat 706-678-2332.