02/25/2006

Callin' 'Em Out - Junior Calling Champs

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At age 15, few can comprehend the definition of greatness, even for a moment. But for Churchville, Va., native Lance Hanger, years of practice, failure and second-place finishes ended today when he hoisted over his head the NWTF Wild Turkey Calling Championship Junior Division trophy.

"It's one of the greatest things that has happened to me," said Lance. "I give God all the glory and look forward to the future ahead of me."

Twenty-four competitors age 15 and younger stepped on stage to mimic the sounds of the wild turkey during the competition, held during the NWTF's 30th annual Convention and Sport Show in Nashville, Tenn. A panel of seven judges determined which caller replicated the most realistic sounds based on a series of calls.

In addition to a trophy, Hanger received $1,000 for winning the competition.

"The week prior to this competition I worked with former Senior Division Champion Chris Parrish," said Lance. "I have looked up to him and was lucky to have him as a mentor."

Junior Division Results:
1st: Lance Hanger, Churchville, Va. (426 points)
2nd: Jimmy Pollard, Knoxville, Pa. (425 points)
3rd: Cory Hoone, Smithfiled, Pa.(425 points)
4th: Dakota Clouser, Danville, Pa. (416 points)
5th: Dakota Russell, Gainesville, Ga. (412 points)

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