GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — One of Nebraska’s largest shooting sports competitions is moving to Grand Island.

The Nebraska Sports Council announced Wednesday that the Cornhusker State Games shooting sports events will now take place at the Heartland Public Shooting Park and archery will be at Third City Archers — both in Grand Island. The events were previously spread out around as many as five different venues in the Lincoln area.

Executive Director Dave Mlnarik says the sports council was drawn to Grand Island for the central location and chance to create a festival-like atmosphere.

“It puts all of these events under one roof," Mlnarik said. "Everybody loves an atmosphere where there’s a lot of energy and a lot of excitement and a lot of variety to what you’re doing.”

The Heartland Shooting Park already hosts the 4-H Shooting Sports National Championships. The park is owned by the city and managed by Hornady Manufacturing.

“They say it’s a three-year commitment," Vice President Jason Hornady said. "By golly, I’ll bet you my job that they’re going to be here longer because we’re going to do everything to make this as flawless as we can.”

The shooting sports and archery events had about 750 competitors last year, placing them in the top two categories for participation across the Cornhusker State Games. The games are scheduled for July 10-20.