Join the Gun’n For Garrett Shoot in Williston North Dakota
The annual Gun'n For Garrett Memorial Shoot is set to return on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Painted Woods Shooting Complex, west of Williston, bringing together the community for a day of competition, remembrance, and giving back. Now in its 7th year, the event continues to honor the memory of Garrett Paine while raising money for scholarships benefiting local youth.
Supporting Students, Honoring Garrett
Gun'n For Garrett is a registered nonprofit organization, and every dollar raised during the event goes directly into the Gun'n For Garrett Scholarship Fund. Since the scholarship program began, organizers have awarded 106 scholarships totaling $52,750 to students throughout the region.
The organization was created following the death of Garrett Paine in July 2018. Garrett was just 16 years old and was known by family and friends as someone full of life, kindness, and authenticity. His dream was to join the Marines, following in the footsteps of his uncle. While he wasn't a straight-A student, those closest to him wanted to create a scholarship that reflected who Garrett truly was rather than focusing solely on academic achievement.
Scholarships Rooted in the Clay Target Community
The scholarship is awarded to graduating seniors who participated in their high school's Coyote Clay Target League for at least two years and are continuing their education through college, trade school, or military service. Garrett himself was one of the original members of his clay target team, making the shooting sports a fitting way to celebrate his memory.
This year's memorial shoot will feature two flights, with the first beginning at 9:30 a.m. and the second at 1:00 p.m. Teams consist of four shooters, with an entry fee of $400 per team. The event is limited to 30 teams, and participants will shoot 75 targets across 12 stations. Shooters are responsible for bringing their own shotgun shells.
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What to Expect on Event Day
There will be plenty happening throughout the day beyond the competition. Lunch will be available for purchase from the Williston Taekwondo Sports Club, while Golden Rule will be serving its popular award-winning lemonade. A silent auction is scheduled during the lunch break from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., and additional side games and raffles will be announced on the day of the event. Awards will be presented following the completion of the second flight.
Participants under the age of 18 must have a signed parental waiver before competing, and all teams are asked to arrive at the range at least 45 minutes before their scheduled flight. Early registration allows teams to choose their preferred shooting time.
In addition to funding scholarships, Gun'n For Garrett also supports other youth organizations in the local area whenever possible. Organizers hope the event not only raises funds but also keeps Garrett's name and legacy alive by investing in future generations.
Those interested in entering a team, sponsoring the event, donating auction items, or making a monetary contribution can contact Adam Paine at (307) 262-1576 or Jessica Paine at (307) 259-0445. Every contribution helps continue a tradition that has already made a meaningful impact on dozens of local students while honoring the life of a young man remembered for his kindness, generosity, and love of the shooting sports.
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