The first recorded PITA targets that Joe Devers shot were in 1950. At that time his averages were: Singles – 97.71, Handicap – 89.00, and Doubles – 89.29.
In 1956 the Nevada State PITA Association was formed. This was also the year that the 27 yard line was established. Joe’s averages in 1956 were: Singles – 98.84, Handicap – 89.38, Doubles – 98.14. A few of Joe’s accomplishments:
• Singles Champion Runner-up at the PITA Grand Pacific in 1956 with 199×200
• Grand Pacific Doubles Champion in 1956 with 99×100
• Grand Pacific HAA in 1956 with 395×400
• 1957 Nevada State A Class Doubles Champion with 92
• 1957 Oregon State HAA with 381×400
• 1957 Grand Pacific Singles Champion and Handicap Champion runner-up
• 1958 Grand Pacific AA Singles Champion, and Doubles Champion
• 1962 Nevada State Doubles Champion
• 1967 Nevada State Singles Champion
• 1967 Grand Pacific Singles Champion, Handicap Champion Runner-up, Doubles Champion, HAA and HOA
• 1968 Nevada State A Class Doubles Champion
• 1968 Grand Pacific AA Class HOA
• 1969 Nevada State AA Class Singles Champion and A Class Doubles Champion
• 1969 Grand Pacific AA Class Singles Champion, A Class Doubles Champion, and HOA AA Class
• 1972 Nevada State Singles Champion, Doubles Champion and HAA
• 1973 Singles average of 1.00
• 1973 Nevada State Singles Champion and Doubles Champion
• 1974 BC Provincial Class A Doubles Champion
• 1975 BC Provincial Class A Doubles Champion and HOA
• 1976 Nevada State AA Class Singles Champion and Doubles Champion
• 1977 Singles average of 1.00
It was said that Joe was also known to be a World-Class Champion Shooter not only in Trap, but Skeet and Live Bird shooting as well. He was one of the All-Around best natural shots that ever lived. Joe Devers deserves to be recognized for his shooting abilities. Mr. Devers is one of the reasons the PITA Hall of Fame was formed.
