Derek "Stone Cold Elk Killer" and Wayne "Dead Tired Elk Packer"

Sept. 23, 2009 - PRLog -- Derek "Stone Cold Elk Killer" and Wayne "Dead Tired Elk Packer"


To all,

Just wanted you all to know that Derek had a great time on his elk hunt this year.  He was successful and was able to take a great 6x7 bull elk, from his wheel chair, on the Lobo Ranch Property, owner Blake Fluhart, outside of Price. Ut.  This hunt was fair chase on a open bull unit on some of the most awesome private property in the state.  Derek made a great shot at 80 Yds, the third day of the hunt, on a bull that I called up to him in his wheelchair where he was set-up on a ridge.  It was just Derek and I that morning and it was a great moment for a father and son to share together.  

It was a real learning experience for all involved in helping Derek face the challenges of hunting from a wheelchair due to his paralysis.  I think the best lesson learned is that despite all the obstacles that this hunt presented, that with hard work, the help of great people and the right attitude anything can be accomplished.  Derek rode a ATV on his own,  Camped away from home, went cross country in his chair and even fell over backwards to bag his first bull elk.

We needed to thank many people and if I forget to mention anyone please forgive me.  The Rocky Mountain Dream Foundation and Blaine Saunders, Founder, for helping us find a place to hunt.  Cabela's and Thomas Bean, Events and Community Relations, for donation a hunting blind (awesome for a person in a wheelchair) and Bino strap system.  Kings Outdoors and Dave King, Owner, for outfitting Derek head to toe with their awesome Woodland Shadow Camo products.  Blake Fluhart & his side kick dog "Kevin Curtis", Owner and Master Guide, of the Lobo Ranch.  Marcus Owens assistant guide and Master Caller.  Durell Barney, Derek's Grandfather, at 76 still on the mountain spending quality time with his grandson. Our friends Jason Beck and Steve Bowler for use of your equipment.  Tregani Barney, Derek's little sister and master photographer, for taking the pictures that will help Derek remember the hunt.  Derek and I also need to thank his mom and my wife Laurel Barney for putting up with all our talk about the hunt, helping us get ready and allowing us the time to make this hunt happen.

Pictures of the hunt to follow soon!!

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Rocky Mountain Dream Foundation

We are a licensed non-profit foundation dedicated to helping those with disabilities and life threatening illnesses get out and enjoy the great outdoors.

Our goal is to provide these opportunities at little or no cost to the client and their families. We do this through corporate and private sponsorships/donations.