Bustin' for Badges raises record $540k for law enforcement
Jun. 22—The 10th anniversary Bustin' for Badges sporting clays tournament hauled in a record-breaking $540,000 last month to benefit four Permian-area law enforcement agencies, according to preliminary estimates announced in a press release.
The three-day contest at Windwalker Farms Sporting Clays in Stanton also boasted a record number of shooters among the 2,000 attendees and volunteers who turned out for the event that's quickly become one of the largest law enforcement fundraisers in the country.
With the tally from the May tournament, the competition has raised more than $4 million since 2014 to directly benefit the Midland and Ector County Sheriff's Offices and Midland and Odessa Police Departments. This year, each agency will receive about $135,000.
The funds have allowed the agencies to purchase vital life-saving equipment and technology, and make budget ends meet, especially in unpredictable economic times.
"Given the current environment, it is unfortunate that many law enforcement agencies are finding themselves in a tight spot, having to trim budgets just to maintain daily operations," Pioneer Natural Resources President and Chief Operating Officer Rich Dealy, who was recently appointed as the company's next CEO and will take over leadership duties in 2024, said in the release. "That's why fundraisers like Bustin' for Badges are so important. They provide a critical lifeline to the men and women who have sworn to serve and protect the people and places that we call home."
Pioneer was the anniversary shoot's $75,000 presenting sponsor and has been a longtime supporter of Bustin' for Badges.
Since its founding a decade ago by a group of seven dedicated board members, the contest has quickly grown from a local gathering attracting a few hundred shooters into the Permian's premier fundraising centerpiece, fielding 420 teams last month. Additionally, more than 200 Permian-focused companies supported this year's contest.
"I'm proud of the record attendance and funds raised this year for our local deputies and officers," Dealy said. "Since the beginning of the year, our employees volunteered their own free time to help ensure this year's 10th anniversary tournament was such a success, so a special thanks to all the volunteers for their time and effort.
"It can't be said enough that the energy industry couldn't accomplish what it does without our dedicated community of law enforcement professionals," Dealy said.
