Rogers Convention Center Hosts 58^th Daisy Nationals BB Gun Championship

The 58th Daisy Nationals BB Gun Championship brought youth shooting teams from across the country inside the Rogers Convention Center June 29-July 3 for a week’s worth of air gun sports and family-fun.

“We’ve been doing this here for probably over twenty years,” said Keith Higginbotham, President/CEO of Iconic Outdoor Group. “I think it’s great for the city, but it’s also great for the sport.”

With over 2,000 attendees, the local economic impact totaled to $1.5 million dollars spent and more $40,000 generated in local taxes. Destination Rogers Executive Vice President, J.R. Shaw, said Rogers has become the Air Gun Capitol of the World with Iconic Outdoor Group’s Daisy Outdoor Products headquartered in Rogers.

“We have such a long history through the Chamber and the City of Rogers and Rogers tourism with Daisy,” said Shaw. “And we couldn’t be happier for them.”

In addition to participating in the event, attendees explored local attractions throughout Rogers including the Daisy Airgun Museum in Downtown, K1 Speed, Topgolf in Uptown and Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Beaver Lake in Bentonville.

“The families are outdoor families, so it’s a perfect place for the whole program, and gives the kids confidence,” said Lawrence Taylor, PR Director/Social Media Manager of Iconic Outdoor Group.

Throughout the week, the event emphasized safety and skill development through written safety tests, air rifle and BB match relays – as well as an educational scholarship award presented to the top three teams.

The event also incorporated several elements to build excitement surrounding the team’s participation, including opening and closing ceremonies, in addition to car-painting and costume contests for families to get involved in.

“This is what I look forward to every year,” said Carly Liddle, Rockin’ Shots Team Member. “Once I come here, I just feel like this is where I belong. This is where I feel me the most me.”