Top turkey caller

[Mergie Master]

Top turkey caller

Top turkey caller: Mitchell Johnston of Purlear, N.C., was the top turkey caller at the National Wild Turkey Federation Grand National Calling Championships at Gaylord Opryland Hotel and Convention Center last weekend.

Johnston, 28, who is a professional firefighter, beat out 47 others in the Senior Division. He won $3,840 along with a trophy and a ring.

Cody Tolley, 20, of Crossville placed in the Intermediate Division (ages 16-20) at fifth and won a trophy and cash prize. Judd Parker, 24, of Clarksville, did not place in the Senior Division.

For the second consecutive year, attendance for the NWTF Convention and Sport Show, which took place Friday-Sunday in conjunction with the calling contest, set a record. Officials said this year's total attendance was 44,501 exceeding last year's mark of 43,000.