GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KSNB) – The Nebraska Sports Council and Grand Island Tourism announced Wednesday that shooting sports will now be held at Heartland Shooting Park in Grand Island.

Officials from multiple organizations across the state, including Nebraska State Fair, Grand Island Tourism, Nebraska Sports Council, and even Grand Island‘s Mayor Roger Steele, all gathered at Heartland Shooting Park for the news.

During a press conference, they spoke on how they’re expecting the 750 participants annually to grow with the benefits and amenities available at Heartland Shooting Park.

Heartland Shooting Park manager Tom Busch said the games will benefit from the shooting park amenities. “We are going to try to add some events,” said Busch. “We’re gonna add intentional bunker which is another shotgun event, we‘re one of the only intentional bunker location for about 8-10 hours, so it‘s very unique to this area Heartland we’re one of the only ones in driving distance to get.“

Busch added, there‘s already a good system in place so he’s not looking to change anything. He also said they will add more active shooting games, but they gather feedback from the participants on what they like and don’t like.

In addition, Dave Mlnarik, president of Nebraska Sports Council, said the mission is to provide a healthy active lifestyle primarily through competitive events.

“What we’re trying to do is have the most possible participants take part in events that are healthier, fun, and competitive. This location change for these events give us the best possible opportunity to reach the most people have them be healthier and active people,“ Mlnarik said.

Mlnarik also said bringing the games to Grand Island will be a great economic boost because past hosts of games brought in annually $5 million.

The 41st anniversary of the Cornhusker State Games are scheduled for July 10-20, 2025. More information regarding the event will be available in January when registration opens for the 2025 Cornhusker State Games.

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