Poplar Bluff, Missouri - Aaron Hovis, a 2015 graduate of the Forestry program at Three Rivers College, has secured his position as a top collegiate timbersports competitor in the nation with a third-place finish in the Stihl Timbersports 2015 U.S. Championship in Central Park in New York City.

“It was just an amazing experience, such a great feeling to be competing in a place like Central Park,” said Hovis. “I feel like I gave it my all, especially given that I was up against the best in the nation. It’s been an accomplishment, and I’m very proud of it.”

At the June 20 event, Hovis placed third out of six competitors with 15 points, recording third-place finishes in the single buck, standing block, and underhand chop events, and a fifth place finish in the stock saw event. Cody Labahn of Oregon State University took second with 18 points overall, and Ben Kniceley of Haywood Community College in Clyde, N.C., took the championship with 22 points.

“We’re extremely proud of Aaron and his accomplishments—it’s a big deal for a Marquand boy to end up there on the national stage in New York City,” said Scott Williamson, Director for Three Rivers at the South Central Education Consortium in Willow Springs. Williamson has worked closely with Hovis to help promote the Consortium’s new Timber Harvesting courses. “His dedication and his passion for the sport are just unreal. I think he has a bright future, no matter what he decides to do next.”

In addition to competing nationally and completing his coursework at Three Rivers, Hovis also served as captain of the college’s Triple Creek Cutters timbersports team. The 20-year-old Marquand native says he plans to start his own logging company now that he’s graduated from Three Rivers. As for his future as a timbersports competitor?

“I haven’t decided yet. I’ve had the opportunity to train with some great professionals, but it’s a big commitment,” said Hovis. “I guess we’ll see.”

Three Rivers College is committed to contributing to the quality of life in Southeast Missouri with quality, affordable higher education opportunities and community services that support and encourage the economic, civic, and cultural vitality of the region. For more information about college and workforce programs and upcoming events, visit trcc.edu

Shown in the photo: Aaron Hovis shows off his timbersports skill in a demonstration competition held earlier this year in the Willow Springs area.