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 the Nebraska State Fair, Grand Island Tourism, the Nebraska Sports Council and even Grand Island Mayor Roger Steele, gathered at Heartland Shooting Park to welcome the news.

During a press conference, they talked about how they hope the 750 annual participants 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’s amenities. “We’re going to try to add some events,” Busch said. “We are going to add an intentional bunker, which is another shotgun event, we are one of the only intentional bunker locations for about 8 to 10 hours, so it is very unique to this area. Heartland, we are one of the only ones in the driving distance.

Busch added that a good system already exists, so he’s not looking to change anything. He also said they will add more active shooter games, but will collect feedback from participants about what they like and don’t like.

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

“What we are trying to do is get as many participants as possible into events that are healthier, more fun and competitive. “This change in location for these events gives us the best possible opportunity to reach as many people as possible to become healthier, more active people,” Mlnarik said.

Mlnarik also said bringing the games to Grand Island will be a big economic boost because previous hosts of the games raised $5 million annually.

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

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