As the Greater Alabama Council prepares to celebrate a remarkable milestone, the 30th Anniversary Greater Alabama Sporting Clays Classic stands as a testament to the power of community support, youth development and firearms safety education.
Established in 1996 by Don Williams, with founding support from Altec Industries and Alabama Power Company, the Sporting Clays Classic was created with a simple but important mission: to provide local youth with access to shooting sports programs and firearms safety education through Scouting. Over the past 30 years, that vision has generated over $3 million in support for local Scouting programs, providing equipment, facilities and expert instruction at camps including Camp Sequoyah and Camp Comer.
Today, more than 2,000 Scouts participate annually in shooting sports and safety education programs throughout the Greater Alabama Council. Eagle Scout Isabelle reflects on the impact of those experiences, saying, “My favorite part of camp was the gun range. I got to handle and learn how to shoot a variety of different guns. I am not a hunter and never will be, but I think in today’s world being educated on proper gun safety and mechanisms is good.” While impossible to quantify, the knowledge and respect for firearms gained through these programs have undoubtedly helped prevent accidents and build responsible future leaders.
The 2026 Sporting Clays Classic, chaired by Caldwell Marks, will once again bring together experienced and first-time shooters for two days of camaraderie and friendly competition. As a board member of the Greater Alabama Council, Marks is the VP of Development and has chaired the event for the last 10-plus years. “This is a great way for companies to have their people spend time with clients, co workers and friends all while supporting the mission of Scouting,” he says. “Scouting is focused on the outdoors and community, and this event exemplifies that. It is remarkable that the GASCC is celebrating its 30th Anniversary, and we greatly appreciate all of our supporters over the years. Tommy Youngblood and Logan Black in the Scout office are instrumental in putting this event on, and we’re excited to continue the legacy started by Don Williams and others. We are looking forward to another great event!”
Gold Teams will enjoy a warm-up round on the afternoon of Thursday, September 10, followed by the main event on Friday, September 11, featuring both morning and afternoon flights. The event remains focused on fun and participation for everyone. Individual scores are never posted, and each team’s lowest score is discarded, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages new shooters to join alongside seasoned participants.
Attendees will enjoy catfish on Thursday prepared by the Kirkpatrick Concrete cook team, followed by Jim ‘N Nick’s BBQ on Friday. A silent auction and door prize drawing, courtesy of Steyr Arms, add to the excitement!
Join GASCC as they celebrate 30 years of impact, tradition and support for local youth. For event information or to learn how you can support Scouting’s outdoor and shooting sports programs, contact Tommy Youngblood at [email protected] or Logan Black at [email protected].
