BRIGHTON, Ill. (Feb. 12, 2026) — The third annual Winchester Top Shot Youth Championship, Powered by White Flyer is back, and registration is now open. The event returns to NILO, Winchester’s legendary hunting and shooting sport facility in Brighton, Illinois, on April 18, 2026.
Built from the ground up for the next generation of competitive shooters, the Top Shot Youth Championship is open to sport shooters of all skill levels between the ages of 12 and 21. The event has grown quickly since its debut in 2024, establishing itself as one of the premier youth sporting clays competitions in the Midwest. Parents and coaches are also welcome to participate, making it a true family affair on one of the most storied shooting grounds in the country.
Thanks to significant support from Winchester, White Flyer and other generous event sponsors, the prize pool tops $15,000. That kind of backing reflects how seriously the shooting sports community is investing in its youngest competitors and the future of the sport.
The registration fee covers 100 sporting clays targets, 100 rounds of Winchester Super-Target shotgun shells and a Winchester gift. A complete package, young shooters can tackle the course with quality ammunition and a full day of competition ahead of them.
Beyond the main event, the day promises to be more than just a tournament. Side games will be running throughout the afternoon and food trucks will be on site, giving families a reason to settle in and enjoy the sprawling grounds at NILO. The facility itself is worth the trip. Tucked into the Illinois countryside outside of Brighton, NILO has been a cornerstone of Winchester’s shooting sports heritage for decades and offers some of the most scenic shooting in the region.
For young shooters looking to test themselves against a competitive field in a world-class setting, this is one of the best opportunities on the 2026 calendar. Whether you’re a first-time competitor stepping onto a sporting clays course or a seasoned junior shooter chasing a title, the Winchester Top Shot Youth Championship has a place for all.
To register or learn more about the event, email [email protected] or call 618-466-0613. For a closer look at NILO Farms and its history, watch this video on YouTube highlighting the facility’s legacy as a shooting sports and hunting destination.
