GREENVILLE – The 2025 Miss Annie Oakley competition officially began with the preliminary round on Tuesday, launching two days of spirited marksmanship, tradition, and celebration of a true American legend.
Sponsored by the Annie Oakley Committee and Festival, the Annie Oakley Foundation, MM Defense, Weyland Jewelers, The Rose Post, and the Soward Family and Friends, the event brought together ten skilled young women to compete for one of Greenville’s most cherished titles.
The competition, held annually during the Annie Oakley Festival, features contestants aiming at a giant ace of hearts with a red balloon target using a pump-powered BB gun. Each round moves competitors back in five-foot increments, and they are given two shots to pop the balloon. Miss both, and you’re out.
Before the official rounds began, all ten contestants were invited to participate in a practice session. Each young woman stepped forward with grace and confidence, and every competitor managed to hit at least one target during practice—setting the tone for a fierce and focused competition ahead.
The list of 2025 contestants included Alia Hunt, Ruby Delk, Hadassah Evans, Violet Evans, Samantha Beyersdorf, Scarlet Cole, Isabella Gulley, Racheal Wright, Lona Dillman and Lacy Dillman.
As the crowd gathered, the retiring 2024 Miss Annie Oakley, Lauren Wright, made a special appearance to take her final honorary shot—an emotional and symbolic moment marking the official start of the contest.
The shooting began at 25 feet, and one competitor was eliminated early. As the rounds continued, the crowd watched closely as the targets moved farther away, heightening the pressure.
At the 40-foot mark, the event paused for the traditional Annie Oakley Costume Contest. Contestants, each required to wear attire inspired by Annie Oakley herself, presented their outfits and shared the inspiration behind them. After careful deliberation, judges awarded Best Costume of 2025 to Racheal Wright.
Following the costume contest, the shooting resumed. One contestant was eliminated at 60 feet, another at 65 feet, and a final competitor bowed out at 75 feet, narrowing the field to the six sharpshooters who will move on to the finals.
The six finalists are Alia Hunt, Hadassah Evans, Violet Evans, Samantha Beyersdorf, Racheal Wright and Lacy Dillman.
These young women will return to the field on July 23 at 6:00 PM for the final round, where one will emerge as the 2025 Miss Annie Oakley.
The competition continues to honor the legacy of one of America’s most iconic women while showcasing the skill, confidence and dedication of a new generation.
