North Carolina Cowboys Top Hand Award

The NC Top Hand Award program was started in 1999 by Old North State Posse as a way to recognize NC cowboys/cowgirls who had made major contributions to cowboy action shooting in North Carolina. This program was subsequently turned over to NCCI which was established in 2006 to run and promote the 2006 and subsequent SASS NC State Championship matches.

The contributions are not about competitive results.  This award is about those that work tirelessly, that bring fresh ideas to the table, that mostly work “behind the scenes”, and that reflect a positive image of North Carolina Cowboy Action Shooting both within our state borders and outside our borders.

The Top Hand Award recognizes top cowboys/cowgirls that have contributed to North Carolina CAS over several years as are viewed as top leaders of our sport.  In order to recognize these hard working folks, everyone is encouraged to nominate someone of their choice that has excelled in promoting the Cowboy Action sport.

The following are some key criteria that should be considered when nominating a cowboy/cowgirl for the Top Hand Award:

• The body of work should reflect their contributions over a number of years (3 or more) of participation in cowboy action shooting. This award was not intended to reflect an outstanding contribution for a particular event or a short period of time.
• A leader in running a local club(s) is cause for consideration - administrative duties and/or writing stages and running matches counts.
• They are knowledgeable on SASS match rules – have their RO I and probably RO II certification. RO training certification is a real plus.
• They support activities that help with the promotion of cowboy action shooting and the recruiting and educating of new shooters at the club level are very positive contributors.
• They support cowboy action shooting activities via participation on the various web sites and associated discussion forums in other venues via positive contributions. They keep up with SASS activities.
• They show up at multiple NC club matches and state matches and helping with match activities in a positive manner with both new and experienced participants is a positive contribution. The contributions to be considered are not about competitive results and associated awards.
• They participate in the acquisition and maintenance of the equipment and materials to enhance cowboy action shooting matches.
• They are noted for presenting a positive and friendly personality during cowboy action shooting activities – they make it fun.

Note: This list of criteria is intended to be suggested points for consideration and is not intended to exclude other points for consideration.