Department of Tourism
For Immediate Release:  August 19, 2002
Contact:  Peggy Woolridge (800) 487-6673

REGISTER TO COMPETE IN THE RINGNECK FESTIVAL IN HURON 

In South Dakota, pheasant hunting is more than a passion, it is a rite of passage. The Huron Ringneck Festival, Nov. 7-9, celebrates friends and family as well as the tradition of a Midwestern pheasant hunt. The festival includes a variety of activities including the Festival Hunt and the Bird Dog Challenge. Both activities require early registration.

The Festival Hunt, Nov. 9, begins at 10 a.m. Twenty teams of eight hunters will have 24 shells to bag 18 birds. Teams have until 5:15 p.m. to check in, at which time winners will be determined by the number of birds shot with the least amount of shells. The weight of the birds will break any ties that might occur. Winners will receive an estimated $9,000. Teams for the Festival Hunt must register before Aug. 31. 

The Bird Dog Challenge (two people and one dog) is set for 8 a.m., Nov. 7 and 8. Six birds will be planted in an area and the teams will have 25 minutes to find them. Scoring is based on the number of birds caught, how they are caught and how much time is used. Cash prizes will be awarded. Teams must register by Sept. 15.

To register or for more information, contact the Huron Chamber and Visitors Bureau at 1-800-487-6673.

The Ringneck Festival has been designated a “Great Event” by the South Dakota Department of Tourism. With that designation, the department provides assistance to event coordinators and creates and funds promotions for the event. The objective of the Department of Tourism’s “Great Events” program is to boost attendance at South Dakota events and to increase economic impact in host communities.

For a free South Dakota travel packet, call 1-800-S-DAKOTA (1-800-732-5682) or visit www.travelsd.com on the Web.

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