2020 Benelli USA Invitational Breaks Fundraising Record

by
posted on November 14, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
benelli.jpg

The sixth annual Benelli USA Invitational raised a record amount of $100,000 for Freedom Hunters—a group that supports outdoor opportunities for combat veterans, active-duty military personnel and military families. The in-person shooting event pivoted to an online format due to COVID-19, but donations from industry partners, an online action, the Benelli Match Donation and other events combined to generate the funds.

“Breaking the fundraising record without hosting an on-site event is a testament to the resiliency of the American people and their willingness to step in to help those in need,” said Benelli USA General Manager Tom DeBolt. “Despite not having the shoot, great food, friendly competition and the comradery that comes with a normal event, we were still able to create a new benchmark in fundraising. We would like to thank all of those who contributed both items for auction and monetarily, and also the ones who put in the hard work to pull this together during these challenging times.”

The annual event normally takes place at Prince George’s County Trap and Skeet Center in Glenn Dale, MD. Industry partners sponsor shooting teams and provide gear and adventures for the auction. The previous year’s event brought in $85,000 for Freedom Hunters. Benelli USA will present Freedom Hunter Founder and CEO Anthony Pace with a check for $100,000 to continue their mission of honoring those who protect the citizens of the United States.

“Without any doubt, having partners in the outdoor industry has helped Freedom Hunters honor more of our nation's finest with hunting, shooting, and fishing trips,” said Anthony Pace, founder and CEO of Freedom Hunters.

“The pandemic may have taken away the opportunity to get together in-person at the Benelli USA Invitational, but it did not take away Benelli USA’s commitment to our warriors. The isolation and uncertainty that COVID brings has escalated the veteran suicide numbers 20-30 percent from an already epidemic rate of 22 veterans per day. Funds raised by Benelli give our warriors hope and purpose through therapeutic outdoor adventures and frankly saves lives. We cannot thank Benelli USA enough for their commitment to our mission and more importantly to heroes and their families.”

Latest

Gotw Rra Lar 22 Tactical Carbine Web
Gotw Rra Lar 22 Tactical Carbine Web

Gun Of The Week: Rock River Arms LAR-22 Tactical Carbine

This week, we're on the range with the Rock River Arms LAR-22 Tactical Carbine, a rimfire variant of the AR-15 that's designed for reliability and gives enthusiasts a way to shoot affordably.

The Armed Citizen® July 11, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Japanese Last-Ditch Small Arms Of World War II

The crude assortment of fighting tools used by the Japanese during World War II give clues of an unprepared and unmatched last-ditch fight that ultimately lead to Allied victory.

Federal Ammunition Awards 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships

Federal Ammunition recently awarded the 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships to two 4-H shooting sports teen ambassadors.

2025 Optic Of The Year: Burris Eliminator 6

Even as new generation after new generation of Burris Eliminator continued to add more advanced technology and functionality, it remained odd-looking—until the launch of this year’s sixth-generation product, which is the first in the line that can mount atop a rifle using standard 34 mm scope rings.

I Have This Old Gun: Star Model B

Of the many Spanish-made firearms to emerge throughout the 19th and 20th century, one of the most recognizable is the Star Model B, largely due to its similarity to the Colt Model 1911.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.