TORRINGTON – Last weekend Goshen County youth had the opportunity to participate in the annual Tom Harpstreith Memorial Youth Hunt (THMYH) where participating youth spent the day hunting geese. For the last 14 years, the hunt has been bringing the community together through the beloved sport of waterfowl hunting. 

“Torrington resident Tom Harpstreith was an ardent outdoorsman whose personal mission was to introduce area youth to waterfowl hunting. Following Tom’s untimely death in 2010, his family and friends organized a youth hunt in his honor to continue his legacy of providing young hunters the opportunity to experience the majesty of waterfowl hunting. The hunt is free of charge to the hunters,” their website explains. “Financial and volunteer support is provided by Tom’s friends from across the country, the local business community, national companies involved in the waterfowl hunting industry and the Harpstreith family.”

With the 2025 THMYH in the books, the event has been deemed a success by committee member Janet Kahler who noted the hunt fosters a love for waterfowling among the youth. 

“This year, the event saw an impressive turnout, with a total of 60 young participants eager to embark on their hunting adventure,” Kahler explained. “They were expertly guided by 23 volunteers who generously donated their time, expertise and goose pits to ensure a safe and educational experience for all.”

According to Kahler, the day wasn’t about hunting, thankfully, because the geese were not cooperative with the frigid morning temperatures – the hunt was about camaraderie and the celebration of community spirit. 

“Families of the participants gathered at the Cottonwood Country Club in Torrington, where they were treated to a hearty breakfast and lunch, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared purpose,” Kahler said.

According to Kahler, the event’s success and smooth execution was thanks to the committee members Jason and Ashley Randolph, Kash Kaufman and Kahler. Kahler also expressed without contributions from the community, the hunt wouldn’t be able to impact the lives of so many.

“The success of the 2025 THMYH was bolstered by substantial monetary donations. A significant portion of this amount was generously contributed by Kevin and Judy LaFleur of Loveland, Colorado. Their philanthropic spirit played a crucial role in making the event possible. The remaining funds came from various donors, with contributions ranging from $50 to $500,” Kahler said. “These donors, most of whom are WyoBraska Waterfowl clients and friends, share Tom Harpstreith’s vision of introducing young people to the sport of waterfowling.”

The hunt was not only an educational experience for the area youth as Kahler explained but the event also provided other hunting opportunities and even shotguns.

“We are particularly grateful for the prize donations that added a layer of excitement and reward to the event. The Levi Pollack family’s generosity was deeply appreciated by all,” Kahler said. “Additionally, the 2-Shot Committee made a notable contribution by donating two Lifetime Wyoming Hunting Licenses and a Weatherby shotgun, which are sure to be cherished by the lucky recipients. The Rooster Boosters also stepped up as they do each year, donating two guns and covering the cost of breakfast and lunch, thereby ensuring that the event was a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. As we reflect on the success of the 2025 THMYH, we are filled with gratitude for the support and enthusiasm of our community,” Kahler explained. “The event not only provided a fun and educational experience for the young participants but also strengthened bonds within our community. We are already looking forward to next year’s event, with hopes continuing to inspire the next generation of waterfowlers.”

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the guides and landowners, donors, participants, and parents who made this event possible. Your contributions, whether in the form of time, money, or resources, have left an indelible mark on the lives of these young hunters and our community. Together, we honor our friend Tom’s legacy by keeping the spirit of waterfowling alive,” Kahler said. “In conclusion, the 2025 THMYH was a resounding success, showcasing the power of community involvement and the enduring appeal of waterfowling. We are confident that this event will continue to grow and inspire even more young people in the years to come,” Kahler concluded.