By Greg Myers
The Grand American $100,000 Grand American Challenge, as of press time, has six qualifiers, including Nathan Hofer, 17, of Huron, South Dakota.
Hofer broke 99 out of 100 targets from the 27-yard line August 4 during the Parliament Coach Handicap to win the overall event, his first at the Grand American, to qualify for the 10-person shootout to be held Friday after the Grand American Handicap.
“I have won several junior trophies at the Grand, but this was the first overall event win for me,” said Hofer.
His 99 was good enough to best 716 other shooters, including edging out top shooters like Harlen Campbell Jr. and Leo Harrison III, whom both finished with 98.
“I was pretty excited to get the win, but I try not to think about it because I have a whole week left of shooting,” added Hofer. “I just look forward to focusing on my next target.”
The $100,000 challenge seems to have boosted participation as the handicap events have had the most entrees during the Grand American this year.
“The challenge has really brightened the eyes of a lot of shooters,” said Hofer. “It gives us something to shoot for. In my opinion, it has brought the attendance and interest up.”
Hofer has been trapshooting for nine years. His grandfather, Wayne Hofer, got him into the sport. Now, Nathan is the captain of the ATA Junior All-American Team, which is for shooters ages 15 to 18.
While Hofer has qualified for the shootoff, he will have his hands full with nine other shooters, including Harrison III, who broke a perfect 100 from the 27-yard line August 6.
“Leo is one of, if not the best, shooters to ever step on a trap line,” said Hofer. “He is one of the nicest guys you will ever meet, and I have a lot of respect for him. I am looking forward to competing against him and all of the other qualifiers. It’s anyone’s game; it just takes one mistake and it’s all over.”
Also qualifying for the shootoff are Marvin Beumer of Missouri, Richard Kaysa of Texas, Craig Blank of Ohio and Steven Huber of Pennsylvania.
The remaining three qualifiers for the Challenge will be determined Thursday through Saturday while the 10th person will be selected by random drawing.

Grand American results can be found here.