NATIONAL SHOOTING CHAMP….
We are proud to announce that 1st Knaphill Scout James West is the British Schools Rifle National Champion (13-15 years) following a very successful day at the British Schools Rifle Championship Finals. This adds to his previous successes as Scouts National U12 champion and Surrey Scouts Air Rifle Competition winner.
James is a real inspiration to younger members wanting to start shooting. Here is an account from James of his journey from first trying shooting at Cubs to national success….
During one of my last Cub meetings, we all had the chance to try air rifle shooting. I had some success and enjoyed it. I was then asked by Jon Culshaw if I wanted to join the WSTSC (Woking Scouts Target Shooting Club). The club meets on a Monday or Thursday, about three times a month at Bisley. We get coaching and training and a chance to try other types of shooting. I have moved from bench resting to standing air rifle whilst also trying out both two handed and single handed air pistol. I have met lots of Scouts some of who have lots more experience and who are always keen to help.
Throughout the year we enter competitions, sometimes against other Scouts sometimes against adults including our leaders! Recently most of the club members entered the British Shooting Schools Rifle Championships. We all had to shoot first round cards at our club night so we had a chance to get into the finals. Seven of us made the finals this year.
At the finals on Wednesday 9th February, four of the group managed to get through to the knockout finals. Knockout finals are very nerve wracking, with lots of people watching and every shot counts. It’s tricky to shoot well when you are nervous so we practice this at club a lot. All my practice paid off though and I won the knockout round and came home with the gold medal for my age group.
From all of my hard work I have now reached the Scout National Team. This means that I have met Scouts from all over the country who enjoy shooting as much as me.
James West, Scout
