LHF Clay Shoot At Hudson Farm

HOPATCONG – The Lake Hopatcong Foundation hosted a clay shoot and hike at Hudson Farm recently, raising more than $13, 000 for the Foundation.

Split into groups of four or five shooters, nearly 40 people participated in the clay shoot, spending an afternoon getting instruction from members of the Griffen & Howe Shooting School. Hudson Farm offers a 20-station sporting clay course, spread throughout the wooded area of the 3,800-acre farm.

The half dozen hikers enjoyed a two-mile stroll through the wooded section near Bear Pond lead by a volunteer from the Audubon Society of NJ.

“Obviously the picture-perfect weather helped, but more than anything, the vibe from the participants and the beauty of the location really made this an amazing day for us,” said Jessica Murphy, president of the Lake Hopatcong Foundation.

“Everyone seemed to truly enjoy themselves and, for many, take in an entirely new experience with enthusiasm. We couldn’t be more excited about how well this went. And it’s nice to know that the proceeds of the day will go toward improving Lake Hopatcong, which resonates with all of our supporters – those who joined us as well as those who couldn’t be here. We may have various levels of skill when it comes to clay shooting, but we all have a passion for the lake,” she said.

A light lunch preceded the shoot and hike and a pig roast dinner followed.

“This makes me happy,” said Jason Gee who shot clays and targets in his youth. “But I wasn’t good at it then,” he said remembering back to his childhood. “I’m doing a bit better today.”

Gee and his fellow employee Mike Harm attended with their boss, Al Hutchins, a local business owner.

“Based on what our group is doing everyone is learning a lot, improving and having a good time,” said Michael McClain.

McClain and his father, Larry, teamed with friends Dean Napoli and Billy Spagnolo all representing Dover Dodge.

“We couldn’t ask for a better day,” said the younger McClain.