Equsquiza places second at state Elk's hoop shoot

Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Marcus Equsquiza shows off his trophy and certificate.

Marcus Equsquiza of Mountain Home took second place in the State of Idaho Elks Hoop Shoot competition this Saturday, Feb. 9, in Kellogg.

Marcus represented Mountain Home Elks Lodge #2276 at state in his fourth level of competition.

Marcus was one of 27 youth competing this weekend being the best of the almost 37,000 youth in Idaho who began the competitions at the school level.

"Getting to Kellogg this past week end was an adventure in itself with the snow not only locally but especially up north this year, local Hoop Shoot Chairman Larry Fincher said.

Fincher added that "this is one of the best levels of accuracy I have seen from the 8- to 9-year-old boys. Marcus was tied for second place with two other boys, shooting 19 of 25 baskets. After the first shoot-off, Marcus and another boy were still tied after shooting five out of five baskets each. On the second round of shoot off to break the tie Marcus again shot five out of five beating the other youth shooting four out of five.

"These young boys are very good and to think they have five more years to compete in Elks Hoop Shoots due to their ages. The next few years should prove to be very exciting."

Fincher thanked "the parents and teachers that support our youth activities. We could not do it without any of the individuals that work at supporting our local youth.

"I could not be prouder of Marcus," he added. "He is quite a young man and I look forward to seeing him and his brother next year. Congratulations to all Mountain Home participants in all levels. I look forward to seeing you all again next year."

The Elks National Free Throw contest is the largest and most visible of the many youth activities sponsored by Elk Lodges throughout the United States. This year in the State of Idaho alone 36,909 boys and girls ranging in age from 8-13 participated.

Respond to this story

Posting a comment requires free registration: