Youth Take Center Stage at the Kansas Ringneck Classic

Youth Take Center Stage at the Kansas Ringneck Classic

The Kansas Ringneck Classic, now in its 14th year, brought together hunting enthusiasts from across the nation and beyond during the weekend of November 16, 2024, in Colby, Kansas. Among the 109 hunters from 18 states and Canada were four remarkable youth participants whose involvement exemplifies the event's commitment to fostering the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.

Two of the youth were invited through the Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors program, which connects young people with outdoor experiences, while the other two were selected based on compelling essays submitted for consideration. For all four, the Classic was more than just a hunt—it was an opportunity to embrace the heritage of upland bird hunting and conservation.

Promoting Conservation and Habitat Restoration

At its core, the Ringneck Classic is a celebration of hunting in Northwest Kansas and a testament to the importance of habitat and conservation. Proceeds from the event fund initiatives like the “Corners for Wildlife” program, a partnership with Pheasants Forever. The program's ambitious goal is to raise $1 million to establish over 2,000 acres of upland habitat in the six-county region.

In support of this effort, the Ringneck Classic has pledged $100,000 over three years, contributing $33,333 annually in 2024 and 2025, and $33,334 in 2026. Beyond habitat restoration, the event also makes a significant impact on the community by awarding $18,000 to youth organizations in Northwest Kansas, ensuring that local youth have more opportunities to connect with the outdoors.

A Weekend to Remember for Young Hunters

The festivities kicked off with a Friday trap shooting competition, where participants tested their skills on 25 targets. One young hunter stole the spotlight with an impressive score of 24, showcasing the high level of talent among the youth. Several of the young competitors were members of their high school trap shooting teams, and their practice paid off in the field the following day.

Saturday's hunt was nothing short of extraordinary. All 13 roosters flushed during the outing were brought down—an impressive feat that highlighted the youth's marksmanship and teamwork. Some birds needed more than one shot to bring down, but the teamwork paid off.

Building Lifelong Connections

For the youth, the Ringneck Classic was about more than just hunting; it was about creating memories and building connections to conservation and the outdoors. Each of the young participants received a lifetime membership to Pheasants Forever, underscoring the commitment to fostering a lifelong love for the sport.

Two of the youth had previously participated in the Kansas One Shot Turkey Hunt, and all four had been actively involved in hunting and fishing events through the Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors program. These experiences are pivotal in developing the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts and conservation advocates.

Gratitude for a Shared Vision

Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making the Ringneck Classic a success. Special recognition goes to Bert Maxfield and the dedicated volunteers who supported the youth hunt, as well as the event organizers for their unwavering commitment to conservation and mentorship.

The Kansas Ringneck Classic is more than just a hunt; it’s a celebration of community, conservation, and the enduring tradition of upland bird hunting. Through events like this, the legacy of outdoor sports continues to thrive, inspiring youth to carry it forward for generations to come.