State Representative David Friess (IL) | Representative David Friess (R) 115th District
State Representative David Friess (IL) | Representative David Friess (R) 115th District
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the Amateur Trapshooting Association (ATA) have reached an agreement to extend their contract for hosting the ATA Grand American at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta until 2036. The contract extension was welcomed by IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie, who expressed her excitement and emphasized the importance of the event for the local economy.
“I’m thrilled we were able to extend this contract for another decade," said Finnie. “The ATA Grand is a premier event and an important economic driver for Randolph County and southern Illinois. It’s a privilege to host the Grand at the World Shooting Complex, and we look forward to continuing our strong partnership with the ATA.”
The ATA Grand American is the largest and oldest shooting event of its kind, attracting more than 5,000 competitors and spectators from around the world annually. Since its first hosting at the World Shooting Complex in 2006, the event has had a significant economic impact, estimated to be between $25 million to $30 million each year for southern Illinois.
Lynn Gipson, executive director of the ATA, expressed his enthusiasm for the extended partnership with IDNR. “We look forward to the continuation of our wonderful relationship with IDNR for many more years as we work together to promote this event and this tremendous facility," said Gipson.
The 2024 Grand American is scheduled to take place from July 31 to August 10, with over 4 million targets set to be thrown during the event. The World Shooting and Recreational Complex, spanning 1,600 acres, is open to the public and offers a range of activities such as trap and skeet shooting, sporting clays, and other sports. Additionally, the complex features more than 1,000 campsites and fishing opportunities.
Skip Klinger, the newly appointed executive director of the complex, expressed his excitement to lead the facility and ensure the success of the upcoming Grand American. "The ATA Grand is an incredibly important competition in the world of trapshooters, and people come from all over the country and the world to participate and watch," said Klinger. "My team and I are already making plans to ensure the 2024 Grand is the best one so far."
With the contract extension in place, the IDNR and ATA are committed to continuing their partnership and making the ATA Grand American a highlight on the shooting event calendar for years to come.
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