Mt. Als Roundup
Mt Als Roundup
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History

In the fall of 2003 Jeff Geiger and Pat Kelly were watching football and throwing a few cold ones back when the discussion turned from sports to a charity event idea Jeff had hatched. He shared with Pat the need to raise funds for a home for special needs men that his brother Gregory lived at.

Mt. Al's RoundupJeff’s idea was realized after years of attending an annual event (started by his Uncle) in Wyoming called the Big Horn Mountain Roundup (BHMR) where 120+ guys were invited guests to camp and ride horses for days while taking in the beauty of the mountains. This event created tremendous camaraderie and fellowship due to sharing the rugged trail all day with other riders, lowering the flag while singing God Bless America, eating great western meals, playing poker and hanging in the bar tent until wee hours. Many of the current Directors and guests have attended the BHMR. The question was: could a comparable event that had some of the great qualities of the BHMR in Central Ohio be created. The lack of a mountains and horses was a problem. Nevertheless, the BHMR became the blueprint for the Mt. Al’s Roundup. Jeff’s idea began to take shape after Larry Clark, the owner of the Made from Scratch catering, offered to provide his culinary and planning expertise. Additionally, Larry’s father-in-law at the time, Champ Smith, now deceased, had a beautiful property just outside Sugar Grove that was perfect for a base camp. Coincidentally, Hidden Haven Gun Club was conveniently located just down the hill from the base camp. 

So we thought, who needs horses?
Guns are a lot more fun!  A group of Directors were assembled who would support such an even by inviting their guests. Guests would shoot sporting clays, participate in a black powder and open shoot, sing God Bless America while lowering the flag, play poker, hang in the bar tent and pitch their own tent and camp. Although horses were available the first year for photo opportunities, there was no riding. Thank God! Dave Brutzer and Willis “Kirty” Kirkbride became Directors and were key to early success due to their expertise in and sharing of their weaponry. Guests are provided a unique opportunity to shoot antique black powder rifles, a wide array of pistols and other modern high power long guns.

The inaugural Roundup in 2004 was very successful! Many guests who attended the first year have continued to come back each year. The Greg Geiger Memorial Mt. Al’s Roundup has become one of the most enjoyable and unique fund 20raising events in the Midwest. This event is held annually the weekend after Fathers Day. A website was created at no expense by one of our guests Joe Jorgensen owner of Robintek.  www.mtalsroundup.com. This will be the 20th Annual and final Greg Geiger Memorial Mt. Al’s Roundup. All of the Directors appreciate your participation, financial support, generosity and commitment. We hope you will experience and share in the fellowship, patriotism, adrenaline rush, laughter and camaraderie that makes this event so special!