Benelli Invitational Surpasses $1 Million in Funds Raised

by
posted on October 21, 2025
** 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. **
LEDE Benelli Invitational

The Point at Pintail in Queenstown, Md., came alive on Sept 26 when shooters from across the country gathered for a day of competition, camaraderie and purpose at the 11th Annual Benelli USA Invitational. Two hundred and five participants—including many military veterans—participated in the event to honor and support America’s service members and their families.

For more than a decade, the Benelli USA Invitational has represented more than just world-class shooting—it has stood as a rallying point for the outdoor and shooting sports community to give back. The event’s mission is simple but profound: to raise funds for Freedom Hunters, an organization dedicated to providing life-changing outdoor adventures for veterans and their families. Thanks to the generosity of participants and supporters, the Invitational and its companion online auction raised $107,000 this year, funds that will further strengthen the connection between the shooting community and those who serve our nation.

“The Invitational is one of the most meaningful traditions we uphold at Benelli,” said Tom DeBolt, CEO of Benelli USA. “It’s a day filled with energy, friendship, and gratitude—directly supporting a mission that reflects our own values. With nearly a quarter of our team being military veterans, we are deeply honored to stand behind Freedom Hunters and the extraordinary work they do for our nation’s heroes.”

Founded in 2006, Freedom Hunters has provided outdoor experiences to veterans and their families, spanning 46 U.S. states and international destinations including Namibia, Canada and Mexico. In 2024 alone, the organization coordinated 127 outdoor adventures for over 1,190 veterans and family members, made possible by dedicated volunteers who contributed nearly 51,958 hours of service—valued at over $1,740,073 million.

The Benelli USA Invitational has been proud to help fuel this mission over the years, raising $1,009,000 to date. Behind every dollar raised are stories of resilience, fellowship,and unforgettable outdoor moments created for those who have sacrificed so much.

Benelli Invitational Results

  • First Place Team: Brandon Geweke, Marty Geweke, Joe Kukla, Joe Kukla Jr.
  • High Overall Male: Randolph Fung-A-Fat
  • High Overall Female: Amy Crow

Latest

First Breach 223
First Breach 223

New for 2026: First Breach Ammo

Hagerstown, Maryland’s First Breach is a new company, based on a father/son team who are passionate about quality ammunition.

Top 10 Bowhunting Items of SHOT 2026

Bowhunting is a gear-intensive endeavor. Make sure you have the very best.

MDT Expands Timbr Core Line with Savage 110 Model

MDT has announced its Timbr Core Walnut Stock for the RH Savage 110 Short Action, expanding the Timbr Core lineup and bringing classic walnut craftsmanship to a modern, precision-focused rifle stock.

Knight & Hale Expands Run N' Gun Vest Line with New Models

Knight & Hale Game Calls has expanded its Run N' Gun turkey vest line. Designed for hunters who demand speed, stealth and efficiency in the field, the new lineup promises lightweight comfort, storage and versatility.

#SundayGunday: Taurus 650

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re taking a deep dive into a compact wheelgun that’s built to balance power, concealability and rugged reliability. This is the stainless‑steel Taurus 650—Taurus’s reintroduced small‑frame, five‑shot revolver chambered in .357 Magnum. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

52 Bears Harvested in Florida Season

There were 52 bears harvested during Florida’s first bear season since 2015.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.