SHOOTERS from throughout NSW as well as interstate will contest the annual Wingham Rifle Club prize Shoot starting tomorrow.
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This is the biggest shoot outside the ‘Queens’ conducted in the State.
Club secretary Tony Moon expects a field of 110 to contest the time-honoured shoot. Wingham’s Peter Thurtell will be the defending champion and will be one of the favourites (see story back page). Newcastle’s Duncan Davies, who dominated the event for a number of years, is also expected to be a strong contender as will brothers Rick and John Ashton from Sydney, who are also past winners.
Mal McKenzie and Steve Southwell from the home club are others who have credentials. McKenzie made it through to the second last round of selections for next year's Commonwealth Games team.
However, Wingham’s district champion of champions winner, Jim Blackmore, won’t be shooting. He is also the club captain and will be involved in administrative duties.
Mr Moon said the quality of the field is right up with previous years, although a past winner, Jim Bailey, has decided to forgo the event to concentrate on the Commonwealth Games trials.
There will also be a strong contingent from GPS schools Shore, Newington and Sydney Grammar here to contest the schools' event.
Shooting will start today with the sweepstakes, with competition-proper beginning tomorrow and concluding on Sunday. As is the tradition, a number of competitors will camp at the range for the duration.
Meanwhile club competition will resume on Saturday June 17 with a championship shoot from the 700 yard range.
Shooting will be from 800 yards on Saturday June 24.