Previous Spring Turkey Hunt 

Coalfield Special Sportsmen and Hands of a Sportsman Host Memorable Turkey Hunt for
Youth Facing Life Challenges

The Coalfield Special Sportsmen and Hands of a Sportsman organizations recently
partnered to host a remarkable turkey hunt for three inspiring young hunters: Rayden
Bradley, James Ferran, and Hunter Fleming. Each of these participants faces unique life
challenges, and all experienced the thrill of the hunt in an event filled with excitement,
camaraderie, and joy.

The weekend began on Friday, April 10, with a warm welcome at Breaks Interstate Park.
Upon arrival, the young hunters and their families were introduced to the weekend’s
activities. The day included a firearm safety course and a practice shoot held near Cow Fork
in Breaks, Virginia. Later, everyone gathered for a meet-and-greet dinner at the park
restaurant, where hunters and guides had the opportunity to connect over pizza generously
donated by Papa Johns.

Early Saturday morning, April 11, the hunting teams met at the park before heading out to
various locations throughout the county. With breakfast bags provided by Food City and
spirits running high, the teams eagerly set off into the woods. As daylight broke, turkeys
began to emerge, and the hunt was officially on. All three hunters got to experience birds
during the hunt, creating an unforgettable outdoor experience filled with smiles, laughter,
and excitement, though none were harvested.

After the hunt, stories and highlights were shared during a lunch provided by Breaks Park.
In the evening, hunters, their families, and guides were treated to an elk tour hosted by the
park—an added bonus to an already extraordinary weekend. As the sun set and the event
came to a close, the perfect weather served as a beautiful backdrop to a weekend of growth,
friendship, and cherished memories.

Coalfield Special Sportsmen extends heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, landowners, and
sponsors who made this life-changing opportunity possible, including:
Hands of a Sportsman, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Buchanan County Board of
Supervisors, Breaks Interstate Park, SWVA Sportsmen Inc., Noah Horn Well Drilling, CNX,
Food City, Papa Johns Pizza, Vance Graphics, Tim Ivy Boutique, Whitetail Ridge Outdoors,
Bob's Excavation, and many dedicated volunteers.

About Coalfield Special Sportsmen

Coalfield Special Sportsmen is committed to enriching the lives of individuals facing life
challenges through outdoor experiences that inspire, encourage, and empower.
Upcoming Event

Join us for our next adventure during the upcoming deer hunt, scheduled for September
25–27. Register online at HandsofaSportsman.org.

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Get Involved

To volunteer or learn more about our mission, please contact:
Ronnie Blankenship
Phone: (276) 701-2054