USA Clay Target Nationals: A Community Effort

When the USA Clay Target League chose Greater Lansing as the home for its 2024 National Championship, the Lansing Sports Commission Team knew we were up for the task of welcoming more than 8,000 visitors to the region. But we could never have predicted that a hurricane states away would significantly impact the event. 

Just days before the competition was set to begin at the MTA Homegrounds in Mason, the remnants of Hurricane Beryl dealt a heavy blow to the area, turning parking fields into lakes, flooding trap houses, and forcing many to rethink their plans.

Instead of letting the storm dictate the event’s future, our community stepped up to the challenge. Partners from across the region responded without hesitation, turning a potential crisis into a powerful example of collaboration, adaptability, and service.

Weathering the Storm, Together

The Lansing Sports Commission team worked quickly to bring together local partners to support everything from parking and transportation to on-site logistics. Dean Trailways provided buses and helpful drivers for the duration of the event, and Mason and Leslie School Districts opened their lots to provide parking. The team at Michigan Trapshooting Association served as parking attendants, golf-cart shuttle drivers, and all-around problem-solvers to keep the event on track. Local businesses and community members supported their efforts by providing golf carts, buses, and patience when it mattered most. 

Meanwhile, the USA High School Clay Target League kept participants and spectators informed with timely updates, helping ensure a smooth experience for everyone involved.

Mobilizing Local Support

In the end, these collective efforts ensured that the competition proceeded without a hitch. The approximately 8,000 athletes, families, and spectators in attendance witnessed firsthand what makes Greater Lansing special: a community that rallies together when it matters most.

This spirit made a strong, positive impression, and we were proud and grateful that the USA Clay Target League chose to bring their National Championship back to Mason in 2025 and 2026. The event will again celebrate the discipline, skill, and sportsmanship of high school clay shooters, while delivering a significant economic boost to the region. Read this blog for a deep dive into clay target shooting and what to expect during this national event. 

A Championship Worth Returning To

While the competition belongs to the athletes, its continued success belongs to the community. It’s a testament to what can be accomplished when we work together toward a common goal: creating a welcoming and rewarding experience for participants and spectators alike.

Interested in watching the event or learning more about trapshooting? Find more information on the USA Clay Target League website.