The 2019 NRA National Police Shooting Championships (NPSC) will begin Monday, September 23 in Pearl, MS.
The three-day competition, conducted by the NRA and hosted by the Mississippi Highway Patrol/Mississippi Department of Public Safety, will test the marksmanship skills of law enforcement professionals drawn from local, state and federal agencies across the U.S. and the globe, as well as select members of the military. A prime example is the U.S. Border Patrol National Pistol Team, a group that has seen much success at NPSC over the years. Shooting skills are realistically evaluated as competitors start with guns holstered in timed matches from multiple positions and distances.
“These law enforcement officers are some of the best marksmen in the country and we’re excited they’re coming to Mississippi to test their skills,” said Gov. Phil Bryant. “Our top-notch shooting facility is the perfect location for this competition and we welcome all to visit our state and enjoy all that Mississippi has to offer.”
The championships moved to the Mississippi Law Enforcement Officer’s Training Academy (MLEOTA) this year from the previous venue in Albuquerque, NM. Hundreds of competitors and many spectators are expected to journey to Pearl for the competition. Last year’s competition in New Mexico brought in about $425,000, and the same is expected for the local economy in Pearl next month.
“This is the premier shooting competition for law enforcement members across the globe who dedicate their lives to ensuring our safety every day,” said Wayne LaPierre, executive vice president of the NRA. “We are grateful to Gov. Bryant for bringing this competition back to Mississippi and we can’t wait for the start of this great tradition.”
The MLEOTA facility sits on 243 acres and boasts a world-class range. And, NRA and the NPSC are no stranger to hosting events in Mississippi. In fact, the match was held in Pearl from 1969 to 1980, and also in Jackson, MS, for a 15-year stretch from 1989 to 2004.
For more information about the 2019 NRA National Police Shooting Championships, click here.
To learn more about the NRA Law Enforcement Division, visit le.nra.org or call 703-267-1640.
For the latest updates from the Mississippi Highway Patrol and Mississippi Department of Public Safety, go to www.dps.state.ms.us.Photos by Peter Fountain.
