Inaugural Kansas Governor's Ringneck Classic

Being a full-time outdoorsman is tough, take last weekend for example...I had to attend the Inaugural Kansas Governor's Ringneck Classic in Oakley, KS. Talk about making sacrifices!

  

The event was the idea of Kansas Governor Sam Brownback and modeled after the Kansas Governor's One-Shot Turkey Hunt.  Governor Brownback believes the hunting industry may be key in providing a level of economic growth to Northwest Kansas.  By showcasing the warm hospitality and all the region has to offer, Brownback is of the opinion, hunters who have historically made states like Nebraska and South Dakota their pheasant hunting destination will instead choose Kansas. 

For more information about the inaugural event read Michael Pearce's excellent article from the Wichita Eagle.

As for me, it was tough to enjoy such an event among childhood heroes George Brett and Tom Watson, especially when forced to discuss hunting and fishing.  Equally troubling was being treated to an intimate concert with the country music band Ricochet (who even covered some Jamey Johnson)! In my opinion the inaugural event was a success and good first step in promoting the region on a national stage.  

Here are some of the photos:  

Kansas Governor Sam Brownback , Becky Wolfe and I

Becky and I with PGA legend Tom Watson

Me and my good buddy Robin Jennison , Secretary of Wildlife Parks & Tourism 

Ricochet's Heath Wright and Governor Sam Brownback singing "Home on the Range"

Buffalo Bill Sculpture in Oakley...one of the "8 wonders of Kansas Art"

Good buddy Michael Pearce (Wichita Eagle Outdoor Writer) talking with George Brett