Dixie deer classic coming in March

By Ryan Hanchett
Published in Sports on January 30, 2009 1:46 PM

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RALEIGH -- of trophy whitetails will be on display at the 2009 Dixie Deer Classic at the North Carolina state fairgrounds beginning March 6.

The 28th annual classic promises something for everyone this year, with a full slate of youth events coinciding with the traditional list of seminars and demonstrations.

The North Carolina chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation will be sponsoring an art contest at the classic. Students will also be encouraged to take part in various youth day events on March 6. A three-hour classroom session entitled "Oh deer" will kick off the day at 9 a.m. and a scavenger hunt will take place in the afternoon.

For the more mature hunting set, several classes and seminars will highlight the classic. Demonstrations regarding the future of deer management, antler growth and deer genetics, advanced tree stand tactics and Quality Deer Management Association funded research will be open to the public.

A retriever demonstration, 3-D archery contest and turkey calling competition will also be held during the three-day event.

John Deere will be hosting a hands-on "Drive Green" demonstration, which will give rural landowners and sportsmen an opportunity to drive, ride and ask questions about utility equipment.

"The Drive Green events are designed to provide people who may not be familiar with utility tractors and attachments a chance to check out the equipment for themselves, operate it and learn more about the features, maintenance, and other aspects of the equipment ownership," said Brad Yarborough, territory manager for John Deere.

Aside from the long list of events, the Dixie Deer Classic is also the perfect place to find new hunting equipment, premier products and taxidermy services.

Vendors such as Smith and Wesson, Parker Bows, Virginia Blade, Porta Climb and Southland Game Calls top list of corporate exhibitors. Over 200 vendors are expected to attend.

The show will open at 9 a.m. each day from March 6-8. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for youths ages 13-18. Children 12 and under will be admitted free of charge.

The Dixie Deer Classic, sponsored by the Wake County Wildlife Club, is nationally recognized as the largest expo of its kind.