NEW ULM — All boys and girls ages 9 to 14 as of Jan. 1 are invited to participate in the local level of competition for the Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship on Jan. 5 at New Ulm Cathedral High School.

Registration at the door starts at 12:30 p.m. and the contest begins at 1 p.m. Participants are required to have written parental consent (forms are at the registration table). In case of inclement weather, the contest will be held on Jan. 12.

This contest is sponsored annually, with winners progressing through local, district, regional and state competitions. Since its beginning in 1972, more than 2.5 million youth athletes have participated in the contest.

All boys and girls will shoot 15 free throws and compete in their respective age and gender divisions. Ages 9 to 11 shoot from 12 feet using a 28 1/2-inch ball, while ages 12 to 14 shoot from the original standard free-throw line of 15 feet, with girls using the 28 1/2-inch ball and boys using the 29 1/2-inch ball.

This contest is free and the winners from each category will receive a basketball.

For any additional questions, please contact Scott Osborne at 507-217-0004.