At The Clay Lab I wanted to make sure shooters received the recognition they deserve for their hard work and dedication to a sport that we all cherish. If you have been in the sport for even one season, you know that it can be a humbling experience at times, so those that become triumphant deserve the spotlight. Great work Jacob Judson and I look forward to seeing you out on the course.
Photo Credit: Jonathon Judson
The people that know Jacob know that he started 2024 as a Sub-Junior and turned 16 on February 28th. However, he looks to be in his mid 20’s. Brandon Powell jokes with him and tells him he doesn’t look a day younger than 35. All in all, Jacob is a shy, quiet, and humble kid that enjoys the sport and enjoys meeting new people.
-Jonathon Judson
In the heart of Columbia County, Georgia, a young man
named Jacob Judson discovered his passion on a crisp February day in 2022. It
was at the local 4-H Wobble trap team meet where Jacob, with a humble start,
pulled the trigger for the first time. Despite hitting just 7 out of 25
targets, he felt an instant connection to the sport of sporting clays.
Armed with determination, Jacob began his journey,
starting with an old Charles Daly shotgun that had served as a snake gun at the
family lake house. His dedication paid off swiftly, as by May of the same year,
he and a fellow teammate clinched victory at the Junior Georgia State
Championship. Fueled by this early success, Jacob upgraded to a Beretta A400
and delved deeper into the world of competitive shooting.
With relentless practice and guidance from mentors like
John Higgins at Hermitage Sporting Grounds in Camden, South Carolina, Jacob honed his skills and
embraced the fundamentals of the game. His journey took him to tournaments
across the region, where he encountered seasoned shooters like Brandon Powell,
whose wisdom and experience became invaluable assets in Jacob's quest for
excellence.
Photo Credit: Jonathon Judson
Photo Credit: Jonathon Judson
The turning point came in 2023 when Jacob participated in
the Gator Cup at BWQC. From being an E Class shooter, he ascended through the
ranks, culminating in his elevation to the prestigious AA Class by the year's
end. His accomplishments were nothing short of remarkable, including securing a
coveted spot on Team USA for Alternate-Sub Junior FITASC —a feat unheard of for someone
starting from the bottom ranks.
The year 2024 dawned with Jacob's rise
continuing unabated. His performances at tournaments like the Jack Links Cup
and the Seminole Cup showcased his prowess, earning him titles and accolades
across various categories. Under the mentorship of Brandon Powell, Jacob's
ascent to the Master Class seemed inevitable.
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Despite his remarkable achievements, Jacob remained
grounded and true to his values. With a quiet demeanor and a heart set on
serving others, he approached each competition with humility and grace. His
faith played a central role in his journey, as reflected in the verse from 1
Peter 4:10 adorning his shooting gear—a reminder to utilize his talents for the
greater good.
As Jacob strides into the unknown of 2024, he does so
with unwavering resolve and a spirit of gratitude. Though the path ahead may be
fraught with challenges, he trusts in God's plan and remains committed to
pursuing excellence while staying true to himself. With each shot fired and
each target shattered, Jacob Judson continues to carve his legacy on the clay
trails of sporting clays, leaving an indelible mark on the sport he loves.
Starting 2024 he has attended the following tournaments and punched into Master Class
2024 Jack Links Cup
1st in 12 Gauge Sub Gauge Sub Junior
1st in Wednesday Prelim Sub Junior
2nd in Super Sporting Sub Junior
3rd in Thursday Prelim Sub Junior
5th in 5 Stand Sub Junior
6th in Main and FITASC Sub Junior
2024 Seminole Cup/Sea Island Classic
Main SCTP Sub Junior AA Class 1st
FITASC AA Class 5th out of 37
5 Stand Sub Junior Runner Up
5 Stand AA Class 5th
12 Gauge Sub Junior Champion
12 Gauge AA Class AA3
2024 Western Regional
12 Gauge Sub Junior Champion
Main Event Sub Junior 4th
Super Sporting Sub Junior 3rd.
5 Stand Sub Junior 3rd
High All Around 12 Gauge 2nd Place
Photo Credit: Jonathon Judson
Photo Credit: Jonathon Judson
Photo Credit: Jonathon Judson
Such a challenging game and to see this type of success is very impressive. Kudos to the Clay Lab for recognizing this young man.
I’m so proud of the young man God has called you to be. I pray you continue to exceed in what you love and that you continue to be the shining example of a good Godly man to all you come in contact with.
Incredible young man. My grandnephew, but has outshined most all the grands. It is so good to see the direction this young man is going and his commitment and determination to stay with it. I know God is showing him how to do great things. Congratulations Jacob Judson