Shooting for top spot | Taranaki Sport | Surfing, Rugby, Soccer, Football, Cricket in Taranaki

THE hills were alive with the sound of gunfire on Saturday December 6 as 26 shooters from around the country converged on Egmont Pistol Club's ranges near Tututawa for a national competition.

After a six-week period of bringing their ranges up to Pistol New Zealand code, Egmont Pistol Club was fortunate to acquire the right to host the Speed Steel Nationals.

"We had to have in place concrete pads and target foundation holes," said club president, Brian Elliot, "as well as acquire and level off the steel plates that we're supposed to use. We also had to provide the necessary documentation like scoring sheets."

In total, 23 men and three women from across New Zealand participated in the competition, including Pistol New Zealand's president, secretary and practical section director and the beautiful weather made the already impressive event, even more special.

"All were impressed by the scenery and the well set up and manicured lawns on our range. The positive comments from those attending will hopefully see the Egmont Pistol Club hosting the event again, next year," said Brian.

All of the competitors had to fire at least 175 rounds to complete the international standard course and there were seven events laid out 'Smoke & Hope', 'Roundabout', 'Speed Option', '5 to Go', 'Showdown', 'Accelerator' and 'Outer Limits'. Winning competitors received special medals and all participants received a certificate for participation.

"A great day was had by all, with all events completed without any hitches by 4pm," he said.

Results

Overall winner Phillip Brown.

Open Class 1st Phillip Brown, 2nd Simon Leadley, 3rd Graeme Purves.

Iron Sight Class 1st Matt Webber, 2nd Roc Blackbourn, 3rd Jan Serfontein.

Ladies 1st Margaret Brown, 2nd Lisa Tomlinson, 3rd Margaret Thomason.