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Billy Yargus Wins 2008 Grand National Turkey Calling Competition

Billy Yargus Click image for print quality version

ATLANTA— Billy Yargus of Ewing, Mo. won First place in the 2008 Wild Turkey Bourbon/National Wild Turkey Federation Grand National Calling Championships in Atlanta, Ga., Feb. 22 to Feb. 24.

Yargus has been competing in the Seniors Division for 10 years, and while he has done well, he hasn't won the Wild Turkey Bourbon/NWTF Grand National Seniors Division.

"I can't describe the feelings, but it feels great," Yargus said. "I'm lost for words. There's no other feeling like this in the world. It's fantastic."

In addition to a championship trophy, Yargus won a championship ring and $5,000.

The contest was held during the NWTF's annual Convention and Sport Show at the Georgia World Congress Center. Callers from across the country earned their way to the championships by winning NWTF-sanctioned turkey calling contests throughout the year.

"These callers are dedicated to what they do," said NWTF CEO and former World Champion Turkey Caller Rob Keck. "They practice all year and travel to compete in qualifying contests. These championships allow the top callers to be rewarded and recognized for their dedication and talent."

Contestants were judged by experts in the world of turkey hunting on their ability to imitate the natural sounds of the wild turkey.

The Wild Turkey Bourbon/NWTF Grand National Calling Championships are the highlight of the NWTF's annual Convention and Sport Show. Wild Turkey Bourbon has sponsored the turkey calling championships since 1994.