07/26/2026
DATES SET FOR THE GREAT DEER HUNT
Annual Event Now
Entering 18th Year
MIAMI – The Great Deer Hunt preparations are in full swing as volunteers gear up for the 18th edition of the annual event.
The event – a joint project of the River Bottom Sportsmen Association for Disabled American Veterans and the Mid-America Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America – is a muzzleloader deer hunt for disabled/paralyzed American veterans.
The Great Deer Hunt allows disabled American veterans an opportunity to enjoy a weekend of food, fun, and fellowship, as well as the thrill of the hunt.
Now in its 18th year, The Great Deer Hunt will officially kick off with an opening ceremony at 9 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, at Commerce High School.
The hunt coincides with the fall muzzleloader season in Oklahoma and will be held Oct. 29-31 at the Dalrymple Farm located at 54301 East 75 Road in Miami.
“We are already hard at work gearing up for this year’s event and are excited to welcome eight new members to our family,” said Jack Dalrymple, president of the River Bottom Sportsmen. “And, that’s really what they are to us – family. We hope they will enjoy their time with us so much that they will come back every year to be a part of this special event.”
Volunteers have been busy with field and planning activities. Field operations are under the direction of Jodi Francisco, while Shannon Duhon oversees the kitchen and headquarters.
“We are so blessed to have the support of the local tribes, businesses and communities,” Dalrymple said. “We simply could not do this event without them. They are always there to help meet every need we have. That is why this event is event is celebrating 18 years and has grown every year. We are forever grateful for their support.”
This year, eight veterans – Garard (Jerry) Denzer, Harry Slifer, Seth Wilson, Paula Metz, Troy O’Rourke, Thomas Cheater Sr., James Cheater, and Lisa Lessley – will participate in the hunt. Hunter bios will begin running Monday, one per day.
The veterans are chosen to participate by the Mid-America Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America.
For more information about The Great Deer Hunt, contact Shannon Duhon at [email protected].
