EDGEFIELD, S.C. — The National Wild Turkey Federation announced today the postponement of the 2021 Grand National Calling Championships.
With increasing COVID-19 cases nationwide and travel restrictions in place in numerous states, the NWTF decided to postpone the contest scheduled for February 19-20 until a later date when conditions improve for hosting larger gatherings. That date has not been set at this time.
“While we are disappointed we can’t hold the Grand Nationals at the beautiful Johnny Morris Wonders of Wildlife Museum, Aquarium and Whitewater Conference Center in February, it is prudent for us to postpone the event in the light of current conditions to ensure the health and safety of the contestants and our volunteers and staff,” said Becky Humphries, NWTF CEO. “Current and anticipated travel restrictions would also prevent the level of participation necessary to uphold the integrity of the most prestigious turkey calling contest of the year.”
The contest annually draws more than 150 of the world’s best adult and youth callers, and even with limited divisions and restricted participation planned for this year, about 100 people were expected to participate and work the event.
Contestants who are currently registered will receive a refund of their registration fees, and contest staff will provide updates as more information becomes available at your.nwtf.org/gncc.
About the National Wild Turkey FederationWhen the National Wild Turkey Federation was founded in 1973, there were about 1.3 million wild turkeys in North America. After decades of work, that number hit a historic high of almost 7 million turkeys. To succeed, the NWTF stood behind science-based conservation and hunters’ rights. Today, the NWTF is focused on the future of hunting and conservation through its Save the Habitat. Save the Hunt. initiative – a charge that mobilizes science, fundraising and devoted volunteers to conserve or enhance more than 4 million acres of essential wildlife habitat, recruit at least 1.5 million hunters and open access to 500,000 acres for hunting. For more information, visit NWTF.org.
