LEWISTON — The Lewiston Elks Lodge 371 has announced the winners of its local Hoop Shoot competition held Dec. 9 at Hasty Community Center in Auburn. Several area youngsters competed in the contest; five earned the title of local champion and will advance to the district contest to be held at Cony High School in Augusta on Jan. 13.

The winners are Keenan Marcoux, age 8-9 boys; Emma Williams, 8-9 girls; Adrianna Dufresne, 10-11 girls; Jacob Hodgman, 10-11 boys; and Ethan Brown, 12-13 boys.

Each of the competitors shot 25 free throws, and the highest scorer in each age group was declared the winner. Boys and girls competed separately. Each contestant received a Maine Red Claws bobble-head figurine and a participation certificate. Second and third place winners were awarded with a medal.

“Crusher” of the Maine Red Claws basketball team was also at the event and entertained the crowd with his antics between shooters.

The contest is a national program offered by the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks as a healthy way for youngsters to compete, connect and succeed; nearly 3 million kids from across the country compete. Winners will advance at the district, state, regional, and national levels to determine a national champion. The top boy and girl shooter in the country will have their name placed on a plaque at the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass.

For more information about the organization or about the Hoop Shoot and other programs, visit elks.org.