NORWICH – With over 3 million participants annually, the Elks National Free Throw “Hoop Shoot” contest will begin with a local contest on Saturday.

The contest, sponsored by the Norwich chapter of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, is open to children ages 8 to 13. The contest is free to participants.

Children competing in the contest are split into age groups, depending on their age as of April 1, 2008. Each participant is given the chance to shoot 25 free throws. First, second and third place winners are determined in each category and the winner will have the chance to advance to the district competition for the chance to go to the state, regional and national competitions.

“We usually have a good turn out,” said Bill Aitken, an Elks Club member. “The Y basketball program is on Saturdays, so we do it at the same time, and it works out well that way.”

The Elks have sponsored the program for over 30 years. “It turned out to be a good thing that kids liked doing,” Aitken said. The program is open to both boys and girls and according to the Elks, it teaches kids about the important values of respect, dedication, loyalty and self-esteem.