PHOENIX — April 19, 1775. At 7:30 a.m., the “Shot Heard ‘Round the World” was fired on the village green in Lexington, Mass., between the colonial militia and British army, regarded historically as the start of the American Revolutionary War.On Wednesday – 242 years to the day – recreational shooters of all skill levels are invited to gather socially at the main range of the world-class Ben Avery Shooting Facility in Phoenix to commemorate that historic moment, while enjoying a fun shooting event.
Schedule of events:
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6 a.m.: Gates open (parking is free).
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7 a.m.: Color guard raises American flag at nearby BASF Activity Center for the playing of the national anthem. Larry Voyles, director of the Arizona Game and Fish Department, will provide opening remarks, along with distinguished guests.
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7:15 a.m.: Participants assemble on the firing line of the small bore range and main range. Targets commemorating the event will be pre-set for the first line. Download additional commemorative targets at https://shotheardroundtheworlddaydotcom.files.wordpress.com/2016/05/bullseye-tabloid-outlined.pdf.
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7:30 a.m.: Firing will commence to commemorate the first shot of the American Revolutionary War. Additional participants will be cycled through in the course of normal business.
Participants are encouraged to save time and register in advance on the event’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/events/793853997450340/). First-time shooters also are urged to watch AZGFD’s shooting safety video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bK6Zn13MBqI) before attending the event.
The event, being promoted at public shooting ranges across the nation, also will provide an opportunity to increase participation and boost the economic benefits that shooting sports provide. As recreational shooters visit BASF from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., they will be connected to recreational shooting mentor groups and shooting industry manufacturers and retailers inside the nearby indoor air gun and archery building.
For more information about “Shot Heard ‘Round the World Day,” visit www.shotheardroundtheworldday.com.