Libby shooters perform well at 'Elks Hoop Shoot'

Six winners from the local Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks “Hoop Shoot” Free Throw Contest competed in the Western Montana District Competition Saurday in Pablo at the Salish Kootenai College Sports Complex.

Each contestant from northwestern Montana lodges stepped up to the free-throw line and attempted 25 free throws. When the last free throw had cleared the net, the Libby shooters had placed in all six divisions.

Jared Winslow and Ryggs Johnston each won first place in their respective divisions. Winslow, a repeat local winner, made 23-of-25 of the boys’ 12-13 group. Johnston made 20-of-25 and was forced into a shoot-off where he made 5-of-5 to take first place in the boys’ 8-9 division.

Winslow was the overall best shooter at the contest with 92 percent accuracy.

The boys will travel to Livingston in February to represent Western Montana District 5120 in the state “Hoop Shoot.”

Hailey Craig and Jonny Cielak earned second-place trophies in their divisions. Sidney Stevenson was a third-place medallist and Jayden Winslow placed fourth.

The Elks “Hoop Shoot” each year attracts thousands of boys and girls. The event culminates with the national finals during a National Basketball Association game.