Aiming for Opportunity sporting clays tournament
Sporting Clays Tournament · 2026 Recap 2026 Recap

Our first six-figure year. Thank you, Cincinnati.

Twenty-six teams and our sponsors raised $100,850 for mentorship, scholarships, and career launches for first-generation college students. Here's to 2027.

$248K+
Raised Since 2024
26
Teams in 2026
100%
Of Proceeds to Students
AFO Impact Section - Level Up Cincinnati

Every Shot Creates Opportunity

When you participate in Aiming for Opportunity, you're not just competing in a tournament - you're directly funding life-changing mentorship for first-generation college students who need it most.

These students face unique challenges navigating higher education without family guidance. Your support provides them with experienced mentors, career coaching, and the confidence to pursue their ambitions.

"When I first started college I felt very overwhelmed, intimidated, and alone. Level Up helped empower me to make my own decisions and be confident in myself as I navigate college life."
Ndeye W., Level Up Scholar
Ndeye W.
Level Up Scholar
AFO Stats Section - Level Up Cincinnati

Three Years In. Our Best Year Yet.

In 2026 the tournament broke six figures for the first time, bringing three years of support for first-generation scholars to nearly a quarter of a million dollars.

$248,760
Raised in Three Years
$60,385
2024 Inaugural
$87,525
2025 Up 45%
$100,850
2026 Six Figures
67%
Growth Since 2024
From $60,385 at our first tournament to $100,850 in 2026.
22
2026 Sponsors
Companies and families who made our first six-figure year possible.
100%
Of Proceeds to Students
Every dollar of proceeds goes directly to mentorship, coaching, and career development for first-generation college students.
AFO Experience Section - Level Up Cincinnati
2026 Highlights

Scenes from September 24

Thank you to every shooter, sponsor, and friend who spent the afternoon with us at Sycamore Sporting Clays.

A team holds the Aiming for Opportunity trophy under the pavilion
The UBS hydration cart that carried water and snacks to every station
Two shooters take a cigar break between stations
An Aiming for Opportunity ammo bag from the George and Margaret McLane Foundation
Two guests raise New Riff bourbon at the cigar lounge
A team of four on the course at Sycamore Sporting Clays
The pavilion at Sycamore Sporting Clays with the thank-you banner for 2026 sponsors
September 24, 2026 · Sycamore Sporting Clays

Thank You to Our 2026 Sponsors

These companies and families made 2026 our first six-figure year. Every one of them helped put a first-generation college student on the path to a degree, and we were grateful to have them on the course with us.

Event Sponsors
Cigar Lounge Sponsor Green City Demolition
Food Sponsor The Ed & JoAnn Hubert Family Foundation
Food Sponsor CMT Imports
Bar Sponsor BSI Engineering
Ammunition Sponsor The George and Margaret McLane Foundation
Hydration Sponsor UBS
Snack Station Sponsor Neyra Industries
Station Sponsors
Argentarii
Brighton Tru-Edge
Columbia Ridge Management
Enerfab
Flexamat / Motz Enterprises
Foundation Risk Partners
Johnstone Supply
LOTH
Mueller Roofing Distributors
Stough Development Corporation
Sycamore Capital
Truce Capital Advisors
WP Land Company

With in-kind support from Delamere & Hopkins (shell bags), Holthaus Lackner Signs (event signage), and New Riff Distilling.

Want your company on this list in 2027? Let's talk →

Looking Ahead to 2027

How will you show up in 2027?

Share a few details and we'll reach out personally as soon as 2027 sponsorships open.

First Time Shooting? We've Got You Covered

Never held a shotgun? No problem! Clay shooting is like golf with a different kind of swing. We'll pair you with an experienced captain who'll guide you through every step.

Think of It Like Golf, But More Exciting

Just as golf has 18 holes, sporting clays features multiple stations—each presenting different clay target scenarios. Instead of aiming for a hole, you're tracking flying clay targets that simulate real hunting situations. Don't worry about experience; many of our most enthusiastic participants had never touched a firearm before their first event.

Aiming for Opportunity 2025 — sporting clays tournament

What to Expect at Each Station

Each station presents 2-3 different clay target presentations—some fly straight away, others cross left to right, and some bounce along the ground like rabbits. You'll get 5-10 shots per station to find your rhythm. Think of each station as a different golf hole with its own unique challenge and strategy.

Expert Guidance When You Need It

Teams with novice shooters are paired with an experienced captain who'll teach you proper stance, gun mounting, and lead techniques. Our captains handle firearm operation while you focus on learning. Sycamore Sporting Clays' professional staff oversees every aspect, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all skill levels.

The Thrill of Your First Hit

There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of watching that orange clay explode into pieces when you connect. Most beginners break their first target within 3-5 shots. By the end of the tournament, you'll be calling "Pull!" with confidence and likely planning your next clay shooting adventure.

Professional Safety & Expertise

Everyone begins with a comprehensive safety briefing covering fundamental firearm safety rules. Eye and ear protection are provided. Sycamore Sporting Clays brings decades of experience hosting corporate events — and statistically clay shooting is safer than bowling or golf.

Ready to Try Something New?

Join Cincinnati's business leaders for an unforgettable experience that combines friendly competition with meaningful community impact. No experience necessary—just bring your enthusiasm and we'll handle the rest.

Explore Sponsorship Opportunities