Though the initial date was a wash out, the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce's shooting tournament was able to make the second time the charm.

The chamber's inaugural Boot, Shoot and Boogie Clay Shooting Tournament, sponsored by Dawsonville Gun and Pawn, was initially supposed to be on June 7, but was delayed due to severe weather. The tournament was held Thursday afternoon at Etowah Valley Sporting Clays.

"We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day to shoot," said Christie Haynes, chamber president. "The tournament was a great opportunity for fellowship and fun, all while enjoying one of Dawson County's great tourism destinations."

Each team consisted of two to four members taking turns shooting at the range. Contestants shot various types of clay release styles, such as report staggered releases, where the second "bird" is released at the sound of the gun, and true pairs, where both "birds" come out at the same time.

Tournament winners took home a plaque showcasing their targeting and shooting prowess. The Dawsonville Gun and Pawn took first place for team shooting while a pickup team consisting of Forsyth County resident Ron Cooke, Marietta resident Barry Zuckerman and Haynes took second place team. Zuckerman and Cooke also took first and second place individual shooters, respectively.

"I try to support Etowah Valley Sporting Clays and Dawson County, so I came out to the tournament," Cooke said.

Cooke has been shooting for more than 20 years competitively, but he said he has been shooting "pretty much all my life as a hunter."

"I really enjoyed participating in the clay shoot," Haynes said. "As a novice shooter, I was able to shoot with two expert shooters who not only were great sports but also were great teachers."

After the tournament, a dinner was held at Etowah, with Big D's Barbecue supplying the food and the Coal Mountain Band providing the entertainment.

"We really appreciate the community's support of this first chamber sporting clay tournament, particularly Dawsonville Gun and Pawn, our presenting sponsors," Haynes said.

While the weather did delay the tournament, a raffle for a Remington Versa Max shotgun was held on June 7 at the chamber of commerce office. Chris Hensley was drawn as the winner by ticket puller Chris Bearden.