30 air rifle competitors take aim Aug. 4-6

View the 2011 National Championship Live Results

The 21st annual American Legion Junior Air Rifle Championship gets under way Aug. 4-6 at the USA Shooting Range located at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo. During the event, 30 competitors shoot in either the precision or sporter category with a .177 caliber air rifle in three positions: standing, kneeling and prone. The top eight shooters in both the sporter and precision category will move on to the finals. During the finals, one contestant will win the championship title in his or her respective category along with a $2,500 scholarship donated by the Sons of The American Legion.

The opportunity for contestants to shoot on professional grounds is in large part thanks to the Legion's longstanding relationship with, and respect from, the United States Olympic Committee (USOC).

"The American Legion has a particularly strong partnership with USA Shooting as evidenced by the many Olympians who have come through the ranks of their marksmanship program," said Jeanne Picariello, chair of the multi-sport organizations council for the USOC. "I became aware of the Legion's interest in USOC membership through my role on the USOC Nominating and Governance Committee. The Legion delivered an inspiring presentation to the committee stating their intent to support Olympism worldwide and at home. I was an early advocate for the Legion, and they received a positive vote for membership into the USOC."

View the 2011 National Championship Live Results