NSW Veterans Triumph at Australian Teams Competition!
January 6th, 2025 | 
Author: The Belmont Shooting Complex in sunny Queensland bore witness to an incredible display of marksmanship and teamwork on October 14 and 15, as the Australian Veterans Teams Competition unfolded. In the Target Rifle (TR) category, New South Wales Veterans fielded not one but two formidable teams – the NSW TR Veterans Gold Team and the NSW TR Veterans Blue Team. The results were nothing short of spectacular!
Under clear skies and challenging winds, both teams fired with precision and determination, battling against strong opposition from Queensland and Victoria. When the final shots were tallied, it was the NSW Blue Team that emerged victorious, claiming the top honors with an outstanding score of 1341 points and 117 centres. Not far behind, the NSW Gold Team proudly secured second place with 1320 points and 99 centres, completing a dominant performance for New South Wales.
The Champions: NSW TR Veterans Blue Team
- Shooters: Scott Brindley, Jim Jeffery, Neil Gibbins, Michael Chad, and Jim Bailey.
- Wind Coach: Steve Williams.
This team proved unstoppable, with Michael Chad delivering a masterclass in marksmanship. His score of 273.022 earned him the title of Best Shooter in the competition. Supported by the steady hands and sharp eyes of his teammates, the Blue Team’s victory was well-deserved. Special mention must go to Steve Williams, whose wind coaching was a pivotal factor in their success.
The Second Place Contenders: NSW TR Veterans Gold Team
- Shooters: Richard Jones, Bill Ballantyne, Alistair Williams, Ken Young, Alan Patrick.
- Wind Coach: Mark Bunt.
The Gold Team gave their all, achieving an impressive second place and ensuring NSW’s dominance on the podium. As Squad Captain and Gold Team Captain, Alan Patrick’s consistent shooting earned him a spot among the top three individual performers with a score of 268.024, highlighting the depth of talent within the team. Wind Coach Mark Bunt, renowned for his unique coaching style, was instrumental in maximizing the team’s performance.
Top Individual Performances:
- Michael Chad (273.022) – NSW Blue
- Jim Jeffery (269.024) – NSW Blue
- Alan Patrick (268.024) – NSW Gold
A Battle of Strategy and Skill The competition showcased not only the exceptional skill of the shooters but also the strategic brilliance of the coaches. Both Steve Williams and Mark Bunt navigated the unpredictable winds with expertise, providing guidance that made all the difference in the tightest of matches.
The camaraderie and sportsmanship displayed by all teams added to the event’s success, creating an atmosphere of friendly rivalry and mutual respect. The NSW Veterans’ performance exemplified the value of experience and teamwork, leaving an indelible mark on the competition.
Looking Ahead With this stellar performance, New South Wales has firmly established itself as the team to beat in the veterans’ category. As the teams head home, plans are already in motion for next year’s competition, where they will aim to defend their titles and continue their legacy of excellence.
Congratulations to the NSW TR Veterans Blue and Gold Teams for their remarkable achievements and for making their state proud. Here’s to more bullseyes and centre shots in the future!
Alan Patrick
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