NRAA National Queen's & ICFRA World Long Range Championship Series - Daily Reports
Daily Report Day 15 # 5- 22nd October 2011 @ 4.30pm by Ben Emms
And so it has ended as it started with the British taking the spoils and reinstating their position as the undisputed world champions.
1000 yards was a tricky range for all. As mentioned earlier most teams waited out a good deal of time before commencing. The South Africans took advantage of the tree line draw to shoot through this early period. They did indeed shoot very well and in fact top scored the range. The Brits, however, had too great a lead going into the final range to be pegged back and in the end only gave up five points of their commanding lead.
The Australians and the Americans had a close tussle for the bronze medal position. The Americans, however, were good enough from the toughest spot on the range, far right, to hold out the Aussies to take the bronze by a margin of ten points.
Highest individual in the Palma went to Nigel Ball of GB coached by Jane Messer to the score of 446.044 out of a possible 450 points. He was followed by Arno Haasbroer of SA 445.049, John Whidden USA 444.053, Andre DuToit SA 444..047 and David Calvert of GB 444.042
And so we come to the end of this magnificent event. The organizers can be well pleased with their efforts it really has been splendidly run. From the markers in the pits, the range staff, the stats and everyone else in-between give yourselves a big pat on the back. I am sure all the international visitors will go away with very fond memories of their time in Australia.
So this brings to an end our commentary. We hope you have enjoyed it as much as we have brining it to you. Now all that us left is to pack and the 13 hours drive back to New South Wales. See you on the range somewhere soon. Who knows maybe Camp Perry in 2015 when this great event is back on again. Anyhow cya.
Daily Report Day 15 # 4- 22nd October 2011 @ 2.35pm by Ben Emms
The draw for 1000 is as follows left to right. South Africa, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Great Britain and United States far right.
The final range has just started, the wind seems to be strengthening, everyone has started bar Australia who have decided to sit and wait. Similar tactic was used yesterday let's hope it works today.
As I write after firing sighters both the Brits and the Yanks have stopped firing.
This will be interesting.
Daily Report Day 15 # 3- 22nd October 2011 @ 1.45pm by Ben Emms
The British domination of the range continued at 900 yards where they outclassed the opposition losing only 18 points. This has further strengthened their lead which is now out to 39 points.
At 900 the wind continued from the left and looked to strengthen to what it was at 800 yards. As mentioned the Brits dominated the range with New Zealand, right over on the tree line, the only side to lose less than 30 points.
The Australians, Americans, Canadians and Africans all lost around 31 or 2 points. So I suppose while the Brits look in an unassailable position the battle for the minor medals is well and truly still on.
1000 starts in about an hour the looks to be remaining similar. Unless something remarkable happens no one will catch the Poms. The draw could have a bearing, however, I don't think it's going to be rough enough to really matter.
Diane Collings of New Zealand is now top scoring shooter on the range with 373.037 ahead of John Whidden, Andre Du Toit and Nigel Ball all with 372.
Daily Report Day 15 # 2- 22nd October 2011 @ 11.50am by Ben Emms
The second day has started as a repeat of the first with the British leading from the get go and the rest of the world trying desperately to remain in contact.
800 yards saw fairly mild conditions throughout with just a little up and down in the wind - although enough there to catch a coach or two. The Brits looked very polished calmly topping the range losing only the 5 points ahead of South Africa, who continue to perform, losing 6 points.
The United States and Australia both lost 7 whilst New Zealand shed 11 and Canada 13.
So now as 900 commences GB leads by 25 points from South Africa, from the US a further 7 points back and Australia battling to get back in the medals 11 behind the US.
Top individual remains Nigel Ball of GB coached by Jane Messer 299.30 ahead of John Whidden USA 208.39.
Conditions remain similar. The wind may be strengthening if anything. The draw has Canada and New Zealand far left along the tree line. GB and the US have the centre line and Australia and South Africa are far right.
This range is crucial for all you must be in contact going to the final range and who knows but anything can happen at 1000.
Back after 900.
Daily Report Day 15 # 1- 22nd October 2011 @ 9.10am by Ben Emms
So here we are the final morning with just three ranges left to go. The day has dawned fine, it feels as though it's going to be a scorcher so the shooters are going to feel it today. The wind is a gentle breeze from the left looks as calm as we have seen for a week so you would think scoring at 800 at least is going to be very high.
The draw has been done and the teams run left to right as follows GB , USA, SA, AUS, CAN & NZ. Shooting is about to commence best of luck to all.
Back after 800.
Daily Report Day 14 # 4- 21st October 2011 @ 5.20pm by Ben Emms
The first day is complete and as I mentioned before the start of the final range it was very interesting to watch.
As mentioned the Americans and South Africans drew far left, the Australians and British drew far right. New Zealand and Canada in the middle. The Australians and Brits waited for some time before starting to shoot at 1000 waiting to see what was happening with the wind. The Americans and Africans both started straight away and both proceeded to shoot very well.
After about a good 15 minutes the British and then the Australians started. The Brits shot great nothing further can be said. They started strong and maintained that throughout to end up top scoring the range in arguably the toughest position on the range.
The Australians, however, were a different story. They leaked points from the start and continued to do so throughout. Shooters can't blame coaches for all of them either as there were plenty lost in elevation as well. The Aussies finished losing 83 points at the final range to only just scrape around New Zealand.
The British in comparison, alongside us, topped the range with 55 down ahead of the USA 57 down, South Africa 61, Canada 79 and New Zealand bringing up the rear with 88 points lost.
So at the end of the day Great Britain lead the Palma with an aggregate of 3509.311 from South Africa 3484.314, United States 3481.304, Australia 3468.289, New Zealand 3433.251 and Canada tail end charlie 3428.261.
Top individual for the day was Nigel Ball of Great Britain ably coached by Jane Messer with an excellent score of 224.21 ahead of John Whidden USA and Arno Haasbroer SA both with 223.28, Andre Du Toit SA 223.26 and Dianne Collings of NZ rounding out the top five with 223.18.
Well tomorrow is another day - thank god - but for Australia to turn this around after the finish they have had at 1000 this afternoon is going to take something real special. They need to come out of the blocks hard at 800, be positive and go at it all day. There is nothing to lose. Four years of hard work and sacrifice come down to three ranges. So bring it on. May the best team win but let's not leave anything on the shelf, throw it all at em and let's see where they land after that. Come On Aussie!!
Daily Report Day 14 # 3- 21st October 2011 @ 3.20pm by Ben Emms
I've just arrived back at 1000 and the teams are on the mound. The draw is as follows left to right USA, SA, NZ, CAN, AUS and then GB far right.
The wind continues from the left so this will be very interesting to watch develop.
Daily Report Day 14 # 2- 21st October 2011 @ 3.20pm by Ben Emms
900 yards completed and lunch now being taken we sure as he'll have a match on our hands.
The locals really kicked into gear after a very disappointing start running second on the range only one point behind Great Britain 29 down against 28. Great starts by the Australian openers really set the stage with Jeffery, Bailey, Robertson and Webb-Enslin losing only the one point between them.
The most dramatic news though from the range was the fall from grace of the US and to a lesser extent SA. The Americans lost a massive 52 points whilst the Africans shed 38. The wash up of this is that Great Britain continues to lead on 2363.248 from Australia now in second 2350.224, South Africa 2345.230, United States 2335.221, New Zealand 2319.192 and Canada 2307.185.
Now one thing I did observe at 900 yards was that both Australia and Great Britain were on far left of the range. This has appeared to be the easier of the positions throughout the week. Now I'm not saying that was everything but maybe it was an advantage. If it is then the draw at 1000 could well be crucial. The Americans and the South Africa were in the centre and it generally has been the toughest.
As lunch draws to a close the wind seems to be a little stronger than earlier in the day. This first trip to 1000 is going to have a great bearing on the final outcome of this magnificent event.
Daily Report Day 14 # 1- 21st October 2011 @ 11.45am by Ben Emms
The first range of the 2011 Palma has been completed and from the get go we are seeing the teams sorted into the order predicted.
Great Britain was almost faultless and lead the field with the score of 1191..141 from a possible score of 1200. The British are followed by USA 1185.121, SA 1181.135, Australia 1179.123, NZ 1174.109 & Canada 1173.107.
Conditions again are challenging but not the degree of difficulty that we saw earlier in the week. The wind is frontal again with a broken cloud cover. As we get further back the conditions are going to get tougher so those struggling at 800 have a hell of a lot of improving to do from here on.
The locals have disappointed at 800 with too many loose shots for this level of competition. If they are going to stay in the game things need to be rectified at 900 yards which is just about to commence.
Back after 900.
Daily Report Day 12 # 1- 19th October 2011 @ 1.00pm by Ben Emms
The final 10 of the ICFRA World Championships was and won in fine style by Richard Jeens of GB in 15 shots from 1000 yards.
The conditions remained the same as they had been all afternoon with a fresh frontal fishtail troubling all finalists. Richard's shoot of 73.4 was an absolute cracker, under the pump and in tough conditions.
The leader going into the final, Jane Messer, did it tough losing 8 points for 67.3. Others to standout in final were Jim Bailey of Australia with an excellent 73.4 and Nick Tremlett, Johannes DuToit and Geoff Grenfell all with solid 72's.
Andre' DuToit and previous world champion David Luckman shot off for second and third position after the running of the final ten. In an excellent display from a fine young man with a great future in the sport Andre' took the shoot off clean 25.1 against Luckman who I think from memory dropped three.
So today is Palma practice with all the national sides on the range now as I write preparing for the culmination of four years work. This pinnacle of world shooting will be tough to conquer with, in my opinion, any one of four sides in with good chances of success.
On the form shown earlier on the week Great Britain must enter this competition as firm favorites. At every opportunity they have performed. Individually they have been well represented and they are just going to be down right hard to toss.
The USA likewise are an extremely well polished team. Their shooters have been making regular trips to the podium all meet. Their coaches look strong, they appear confident and I think they are in with a big show.
The South Africans have been the real surprise packet for the week. They performed admirably in the Australia Match as they have individually since then. For a country with a relatively small base they perform well above their weight.
Australia, you would have to honestly say, has disappointed to this stage. They under performed in the Australia Match and will be looking for some serious redemption on home soil. Australia's best prospects lie in the conditions remaining tough as they have been in the individuals. I think if it's a mill pond the visiting teams have more firers hitting it harder and more consistently. If stays tough Australia's experience on the range in bad weather could well prove to be the difference.
Of the other two sides - Canada and New Zealand - neither have impressed so far either in teams or individually so it is hard to see them pulling this out of the bag. The beauty of sport though is the unexpected twists and turns so maybe we should not discount their chances.
So we await the final competition commencing tomorrow morning. We will be running, as we did in the Australia Match, a live score board with the results being posted as they come from the mound, shooter for shooter. We will have reports after each range and photos as well. We hope you enjoy the coverage.
Daily Report Day 12 # 3- 19th October 2011 @ 2.45pm by Ben Emms
So the final competition range has been run and we are now down to the final ten.
They say that sport reflects life and so it is here as we have ended up with a case of the boys chasing the girls. Jane Messer of GB leads the field three points clear on 356.059 from young Andre' DuToit of SA and the not quite as young David Luckman of GB both with 353.65. The balance of the ten is made up of Trudie Fay USA 353.55, Richard Jeens GB 652.45, Geoff Grenfell Bendigo 650.66, Johannes DuToit SA 649.53, Jim Bailey AUS 647.55, John Whidden 646..54 and Nancy Thompkins USA 647.53.
1000 yards was anything but mild so you can discount my earlier predictions. The wind, whilst maybe not as strong as the other day, was extremely changeable in direction and strength and the resultant carve ups were across the board.
Sherri Gallagher, the leader going into the final range, coped a patch as bad as anyone returning only 60.1. That is about as cruel as it gets and I real do feel for her after leading for so long.
The final at 1000 yards will be 20 shots under intense pressure and in a wind thats as hard to read as it has been all week. The boys are going to have to go like demons if they are going to catch the girl this time!
Back with the final in about an hour and a half.
Daily Report Day 12 # 2- 19th October 2011 @ 11.30am by Ben Emms
800 yards is over, tables are set and we prepare for the final round of the World Championships.
Conditions so far today have been basically mild, especially when compared to the previous three days. Apart from the odd light shower at 800 the winds were far less treacherous than previously experienced. 75's were fairly common, although in saying that there was enough going on to lose them just the same.
Our leaders generally have got through reasonably intact and now with the final general championship range to go we have Sherri Gallagher USA continuing to lead 584.045 from Jane Messer GB 583.53 and David Luckman GB 582.56
1000 yards is 15 minutes away from starting as I write. The wind remains from around 10 oclock. It looks mild enough but just doing enough. The leaders will be well placed in this, it will be far from a lottery.
Next report after this range and before the final 10.
Before I close Mrs Davies I know the spelling and punctuation aren't perfect - its not easy on an iPhone!!! Dunc passed on your comments... (sometimes the webmaster misses them also! GR)
Daily Report Day 12 # 1- 19th October 2011 @ 8.00am by Ben Emms
The last morning of this World Championships has dawned with some broken cloud and the all important wind coming, at this stage, direct from 12 o'clock. If yesterday is any guide those that draw first or second slot could well have the best of the conditions.
Today will be a test of the mental toughness of the top runners as much as it is a test of their marksmanship. By the time they reach the final ten stage there will be a lot of "knots in stomachs" I'm sure.
Best of luck to all once again. Reports today at every break.
Daily Report Day 11 # 1- 18th October 2011 @ 10.45pm by Ben Emms
Third day of the ICFRA World Individual Championships is over and what another grueling day it has been. The wind remained a frontal - very similar to yesterday in fact - and was more than a challenge for all. Tough conditions, though, are what separates then greats from the rest and we are starting to see this happen in the field tonight.
Shooting started this morning from 800 yards and as we gathered behind the line this morning things looked to be quiet calm. In fact if shooting had started at 8.00am as it had done the previous day then first down would have been the best draw all day! The 25 minutes that elapsed between then and starting changed the entire scenario. The wind came up, quartering between 9 and 12 o'clock. First shooters were lucky to break 70 most back around 67 and 68. From then on it was the same for everyone, tough the whole way. A score of 73 or better was a real winner.
900 yards was the same only worse. Maybe shooters on the far left of the range had it a little easier but not much. Also the last couple of shooters, scores seemed to improve a little with more 72's and 3's coming up. Once again the odd 74 and 75 but they were like gold.
Sherri Gallagher USA retains the lead going into the last day 15 points down on 510.38 from Trevor Massey USA 509.37, Jane Messer GB 508.43, Nick Tremlett GB 508.39 and Andre DuToit SA 507.54. A full list of scores can be found by hitting the link on the front page.
So here we are one day to go. 900 and then 1000 tomorrow to get into the final 10. The final is a marathon 20 shot match at 1000 yards. If the wind continues as it has been more than ever this truly is anyone's game.
1st position has a 5 point break on 10th. 10th though only has 3 points on 20th so the make up of the final ten has the potential to be very different to what we are looking at tonight.
The forecast for tomorrow is fine day with light to moderate south easterly winds so could well be similar to today. If it is the final will very interesting watching. Best wishes to those still in the hunt and commiserations to those smashed along the way.
Daily Report Day 10 # 2- 17th October 2011 @ 8.50pm by Ben Emms
Well what an afternoon! The best way I heard it described was "a lot of blood left on the mound!" The strong frontal wind was more than just tough it was down right cruel at times. Changing quickly in angle as well as in strength magpies and outers were commonplace across the range.
As at 900 only more so anything with a 7 in front of it was to be proud of and it is a never ending source of amazement when you see the odd few get up with a 74 or 75!
However, if nothing else, it was fair across the board there never were any real sustained lulls throughout the stage. It looked at one stage as if the wind was going to die but alas for those of us with a late draw it drew another breath and was back as strong as it was for the rest of the afternoon.
At he end of the day Richard Jeens of GB is at the head of the leaders board on 366.26 just ahead of Jim Jeffery of Australia 365.34, Trevor Massey USA 365.26, Andre' Du Toit SA 364.44 and Sheri Gallagher USA 364.27 rounding out the top five at what is the half way point of competition.
Tomorrow will see a light day compared to today with just the two ranges to be shot - 800 and 900 yards. The forecast is for light to moderate winds, no rain and 24 degrees. Maybe those that survived disaster today could be well placed if conditions settle down.
Daily Report Day 10 # 1- 17th October 2011 @ 2.00pm by Ben Emms
With 900 yards now all but complete this has been arguably the toughest day of the championships so far - I would venture by a fair margin. A frontal fishtail is blowing hard into the shooters - probably around 16 mph - and varying its angle from almost dead 12 o'clock to back around to 9.30 or 10.
800 yards first up this morning was maybe a little easier it did, however, rain for the first time whilst we were shooting causing a few disruptions. Best on the range that I can quickly see was Fazal Mohideen of the Canadian Palama Team with 75.13 from possibly George Edser of Australia 75.12.
David Luckman looks to have taken out the first three range aggregate with the score of 222.29 from Ty Cooper 222.26.
900 yards has been tougher with the wind blowing harder and then just being that 100 yards further back on this tight target accounting for many. A score of 70 looks to be above average. More than one board I walked past had not one score above this! Although I did not see it I'm sure there was one or two 75's and I did see Brian Litz of the USA with 74.10.
Just before the start of 1000 the conditions remain similar if it gets any rougher it will be a bit of a lottery if it settles at some stage we may see a few more high scores.
Back after stumps
Daily Report Day 9 # 3- 16th October 2011 @ 6.50am by Ben Emms
After the first two ranges of the world championship we have had an insight into how tough it will be to take out this grueling event. 1000 yards was a marathon in the heat and humidity which tested the mettle of all.
Paul Sykes of the GB team leads the field the only man left clean with 150.19 from Ty Cooper of the USA 149.18, young Jessica Bale of the Australian Under 25's 149.16 and Johannes Du Toit of SA the last man one down 149.12.
The one thing I know is that this game is going to be open to the end. Any match contested continuously over 8 9 and 1000, on these ICFRA targets and in these conditions is open to the end. Tonights results may pay very little semblance to what we see on Wednesday evening.
Tomorrow will be long day with three ranges all 15 shots. Thankfully the forecast for tomorrow is to be a little cooler than today which will be welcome relief.
Shooting commences at 8 tomorrow morning so further reports from then on.
Daily Report Day 9 # 2- 16th October 2011 @ 11.40am
900 yards is all but complete and from the way things started this morning this will be a very open competition. Once again the early draw looked the best with the highest percentage of 75's being shot in the first couple of shooters. As the morning warmed the breeze did up and down a little catching many either side.
One thing that was notable was the fatigue factor especially later in the morning as the temperature climbed into the late 20's - in the direct sun it's certainly a lot more. From 12.30 on 1000 yards will be a tough ask that will test out the stamina of all.
With the range almost complete there are four shooters all with 75.11 heading the board. They are - in no particular order - Abraham Van Nietkerk SA, Darryl Crow NZ, Geoff Grenfell Aus and Ty Cooper USA.
Back after 1.00pm this afternoon.
Daily Report Day 9 # 1- 16th October 2011 @ 8.20amby Ben Emms
And so we reach the final individual competition today with commencement of the World Individual Long Range Championship. Today has dawned fine and as we sit behind the line at 900 yards, from where I pen this report, there is not a cloud in the sky, you can feel the early heat working into the day and a light breeze is drifting across the range from the right.
With the best riflemen and women from around the world this competition will he a true test with nine stages of 15 shots from 800 yards back to 1000. Any weakness in technique or wind reading ability will be truly found out by the end of the series.
If you are looking for predictions one can only say that current form shows that any number of shooters could take this out. Current reigning world champion David Luckman of GB would be confident after a good hit out in the Queen's and top scoring the Kaltenberg two days ago.
Best of luck to all reports at lunchtime after 900 yards and again this evening after 1000.
Daily Report Day 7 # 1- 14th October 2011 @ 5.00pm by Ben Emms
Well once again the stars and stripes are flying over Belmont after John Whidden of Georgia USA took out Her Majesty's The Queen's Prize with the score of 399.46 the only shooters left one down from Sherri Gallagher USA 398.54.
900 yards this morning draws were crucial early down was a mill pond with almost zero on the sights by the end of the range and the day warming up things were moving around with up to 5 or 6 required.
1000 yards was similar although if anything the first down had the best of the draw - although whatever your draw you have to make the best of it and well done to those that did!
The Kaltenburg Cup was run after the Queen's Prize - 15 shots at 1000 yards Bisley Style - and I can tell you in the mid day heat that was something to experience! David Luckman of Great Britain took advantage of his experience at this style - oh and the fact that he and Duncan Davies happen to get the only position on the range that was in the shade!!!!! - Anyhow as I said whatever your draw you have to take advantage of it and David did topping the the field with an excellent 75..10 clear of Nigel Ball of GB the only other shooter with clean with 75.05.
The Grand went to Jim Bailey of Australia with score of 770.081 from Andre DuToit of South Africa 768.091.
In closing if you happened to wondering how your scribe faired, well he got hammered and honey need a hug!
Well as the presentation winds it way towards the finish tomorrow we have the veterans and the under 25's doing battle and then on Sunday the world individuals commence.
Daily Report Day 6 # 2- 13th October 2011 @ 9.05pm by Ben Emms
Sorry for the late post but major storms have been playing havoc around Brisbane tonight and my broadband is out and this is being typed from IPhone so please excuse the brevity of the report.
Well after 6, 8 & 9 we have our leaders for tomorrow, our field is spread - a little and the main actors are in place for our two part play tomorrow morning.
Norm Anderson of the USA leads the Queen's prize the only man left none down on 300 from David Luckman of Great Britain the first of 9 shooters on one point down. A great gaggle then run from 11th place on so this truly is anyone's game.
The forecast tomorrow morning is for more showers and light to moderate east to north easterly winds so by the sound of the wind coming from left and to the rear of the shooters similar to what we have had the last day or so.
Sorry my report is light on but the absence of the Internet does hamper things somewhat. How reliant we become!
Best of luck to all tomorrow, 900 and 1000 yards in the morning and then the Royal Kaltenburg Cup in the afternoon - 15 shots from 1000 for the top 30 in the grand.
Daily Report Day 6 # 1- 13th October 2011 @ 15.30pm by Ben Emms
Well the shorts are over for the week and if you don't like shooting at a 6x8 target now is the time to pack the bags and head for the hills!
600 yards this morning was a very gentle affair with only a gentle breeze from around 10 o'clock worth about one and half minutes drifting across. Scoring was high and although I didn't see any I'm sure there would have to have been at least a couple of 50.10's.
Few of the leaders would have lost points in that weather so you could count on at least the top 15 being clean. With 800 yards about to start and the wind remaining light you would think the congestion will remain for a little while yet.
Tonight will see the famous "Calcutta" auction of the top runners in the Queen's. With such a tight field and 1000 yards to come tomorrow the rest could well look the best value wager tonight!
More after completion of 900 this afternoon.
Daily Report Day 5 #2 - 12th October 2011 @ 7.30pm by Ben Emms
Well after the day of the shorts we may not have sorted the wheat from the chaff but we may well have it in a stack that we can start the sorting!
After a mild start at 300 yards with just enough doing to catch the unwary, conditions got no easier for the rest of the day. The wind swung around to be coming from 7 and 8 o'clock for the balance of the day with the flags probably showing more wind than was actually required. I would think over reading caught more rifleman than did under reading. At 600 yards between 1.5 and 2.5 left was the allowance that most found to be required.
Sherri Gallagher of the USA was "top of the pops" with an excellent 150.024 from James Corbett of Benalla (Aust) 150.023 and to keep the international flavour going Jon Underwood of Great Britain in third position 150.21, Petrus Haasbroek of South Africa 150.20 in forth and Geoff Grenfell Bendigo (Aust) 150.20 in fifth.
The minor grades see Kevin Howlett of the Natives Club (Brisbane) leading 147.15 from Randy Pike of the USA Vets - although he has been here long enough to be a local - 146.15. C Grade the NZ U/25's dominate the board with Charlotte Flanagan leading with 144.10 from Andrew Jane 143.10 both of NZ. F Class Standard A Grade is lead by Darryl Barlow Ipswich 176.007 two points clear of Bob Pederson Hobart 174.014. B Grade F Class sees Lindsay Crombie Brisbane 172.009 from Jennie Hausler Brisbane 172.005. Finally F Class Open is lead by a very consistent performer in Rod Davies of Cessnock with 179.011 from Cameron McEwen of Dalby - Tara 177.013. Well done to all.
Tomorrow - the 2nd day - as always is the crunch day - the day we see who is really in the game for the long hall. With a menu of 600, 800 and 900 yards we will get a much clearer idea of who is really up to the world class standard that is going to be required to take out this dog fight. The forecast for tomorrow is for a shower or two and a possible afternoon thunder storm with South East to North East winds so sounds like things could be changing around a bit.
Best of luck to all. Shooting commences at 8.30am sharp and reports will be posted throughout the day. We hope you're enjoying the coverage of what so far has been an excellent event.
Daily Report Day 5 #1 - 12th October 2011 @ 10.10am by Ben Emms
The 2011 NRAA Queen's Prize has commenced this morning at Belmont with high overcast and a light frontal breeze. 475 shooters have taken to the mounds competing in what will be one of the hottest Queen's fields in Australia since probably 1988.
Initial returns at 300 look around normal although the slightly twitching breeze is catching more than its fair share. A quick stroll down the range saw 50.8's about the top of the tree although I'm sure there will be better, however a number of notables had managed to sneak one or two out of the bullseye.
The sun is starting to burn the overcast off and my pick is when it gets to the hotter parts of the day this wind is going to get a little tricky.
More reports after lunch
Daily Report Day 4 #4 - 11th October 2011 @ 6.30pm by Ben Emms
The smoke is clearing, the dust is settling, the cheering has finished and Great Britain once again is heading to the presentation area to collect the spoils.
After a tense 1000 yards Great Britain erased the small deficit they carried into the range with a near perfect display. Delaying their start by almost 10 or 15 minutes and came home with a wet sail to trump the opposition. The wind continued to in a similar vein to earlier in the day if anything swinging around to be even further behind the shooters. The South Africans were out of the box early and were strong losing only 2 points for their first four shooters and were looking to be the goods. Australia and the US lost 3 and 4 points repectively over the same period. When the Brits started they were solid throughout and really avoided any disasters. Their opening pairings came away with only 2 points lost after four shoooters and to be honest the difference between them and the opposition they did not fall away thereafter. The 50's and 49's kept coming - the worst suffered was a single 46. When the closers Watson and Underwood took to the mound GB was leading South Africa by 4 points and closed out with a perfect pair of 50's as cool as you like. Well done to GB they are truly a champion side and the rest of the field will have to rise to meet the challenge later in the meeting when it comes around to Palma time.
Best idividually was Brian Litz USA with a match record equalling score of 200.26 from David Luckman GB 200.24 and J.C. Jonck SA 200.19.
Highest scoring coach on the day is a little confused from the way the boards were written up this morning so we will have some work to do on that front, however, I think from what information I have the following is the case. Best on range was Steve Hardin USA 989.109 from Matt Ensor GB 989.107, T Breedt SA 987.095 & Steve Negus Aus 986.102. Don't shoot the messanger if a few of these are incorrect it was not always clear who was under who and time does not permit too much investigation.
Now on to the individuals again with the H.M. The Queen's Prize commencing tommorrow for three days followed by the World Championships after that. Let's hope the weather can hold as it has today which has been outstanding.
Daily Report Day 4 #3 - 11th October 2011 @ 3.25pm by Ben Emms
900 yards is done and boy do we have a game on our hands as we roll back to 1000 yards!
The breeze remained posted at 8 oclock moving from roughly 4 to 8 points and caused all teams some concern throughout the range. South Africa were best on range getting away from 900 dropping only 6 points in a truly great performance. Australia steadied their ship pulling back afew points on the leaders to remain within striking distance. the Brits struggled most of all losing 13 points with probably a greater share of feathers than the other sides.
Individually P A Hassbrock of South Africa leads with 150.21, from Brian Litz USA 150.20 and David Luckman and Parag Patel GB 150.19.
So as we await the start of the final range the US lead with 1481.161 from South Africa 1481.158, GB 1480.155 Australia 1477.163, Canada 1471.140 and New Zealand 1459.113.
The wind is not looking any easier this will be a grandstand finnish of the highest order. Best of luck to all and remember "Fortune Favours The Brave".
Daily Report Day 4 #2 - 11th October 2011 @ 12.50pm by Ben Emms
600 yards completed and this Australia Match has taken on a whole new complection to what it had after 300 yards.
Great Britain is showing why they have been rarely bested over recent times with a powerfull display at 600 yards. Three parts through their squads they were only one point down and had really got break on the field. Fortunately for the chasers they did have a slight stumble in closing, losing three to Tom Rylands 47.01 and another two to Jon Underwood 48.06 to bring them back closer to the field.
The United States also had a very strong stage and are really sticking it to the British only 2 points behind but with a stack of centres up their sleeve. The Australians can only be described as dissappointing after such a promising start at 300 and are going to have to shoot like demons to come home from here. Australia are currently in 4th position trailing South Africa as well as the US and GB. So as a summary we have GB on 993.104 from US 991.120, South Africa 987.111, Australia 986.114, Canada 985.097 and New Zealand 972.077.
Best individually after 600 is Tom Walters of Canada 100.18 from Jim Bailey Australia 100.17, J.A. DuToit South Africa and Trudie Fay USA both with 100.15. Currently 18 shooters have doubles going back to the longs.
As we all know this is where these big matches are won and lost and now is the time for the heavy hitters to stand up and to start swinging. The breeze is picking up as the day warms and this game is anyones. The Poms and the Yanks have a slight advantage but the Boks, Aussies and the Canadians are chasing hard. Bring it on!!
Daily Report Day 4 #1 - 11th October 2011 @ 11.20pm by Ben Emms
The Australia Match has kicked off at 300 metres in beautiful sunshine, 25 degrees, just an odd cloud and with a light breeze coming over the left shoulder with a only a point or two's value.
As predicted after Saturdays performances Great Britain opened strongly with a near faultless dropping only the one point to come away leading the field with 499.058 from the United States 498.063 and Australia 498.062. Australia look the biggest improvers starting brilliantly opening with 50.09 from Jim Bailey and 50.06 from Gray Robertson then remaining clean all the way through until their last shooter. With only three shots to go on Duncan Davies they waited out a change in the wind for some time which may have proved a tactical error then going on to lose two of their following three shots. Things are always easy from the sidelines!!
High scorers for the range individually were, along with Jim Bailey Australia and all with 50.9's, Nigel Ball Great Britain, Tom Walters Canada, Barry Lanille Canada and J.A. DuToit of South Africa.
Now we are back at 600 yards awaiting the restart. The wind is continuing to be a rear fishtail. From here as the day warms and the winds become stronger the coaches will come into their element and here with home ground advantage you would be thinking the Australians should some to the fore. This will be very interesting to watch.
More reports at the end of 600 yards.
Daily Report Day 2 #3 - 9th October 2011 @ 9.30pm by Ben Emms
The 2011 President's match has been reached it's conclusion after a very tough afternoon session over 900 and 1000. Johannes Du Toit of the South African Rifle Team took the aggregate the only man left one down 299.41 followed closely by Jim Bailey & Jim Jeffery Australian Rifle Team both with 298.34.
The final ranges were tough and 50's were scarce. At 1000 yards 47's looked to be a holding score carve ups were not reserved for the lowly placed!
In the minor grades Ewan Liddell of the NZ Under 25's took B Grade 290.25 from Don Coleman Canada 288.19. C Grade Andrew Whooley NZ Under 25 285.16 from Charlotte Flanagan NZ Under 25 284.21.
F Class A Grade went to Ron Betts Darwin 336.21 from Peter Drew Grafton 336..17. F Class B Grade to Brent Noble Ipswich 330.16 from Linda Shehan Wurgabup Western Australia 324.16 F Open was won by David McNamara Cairns 351.22 from John Tracey Uni of Queensland 342.21
As the presentation winds it's way through the badge presentation we looked forward to the coming days with a team practice day tomorrow Monday. Tuesday sees the Australia Match contested for both the Seniors and the Under 25's and although important in its own right this will be a great sighter towards the Palma at end of the fortnight.
Now a schooner calls we'll be back with a running commetry of the Australia Match on Tuesday best of luck to all.
Daily Report Day 2 #2 - 9th October 2011 @ 9.00am by Ben Emms
Well 800 yards is finished and it has been a morning of far greater treachery than it first appeared. First shooters at 600 got the easiest of the day and 50's were common. As the morning wore on conditions became more changeable and 48's and 49's were more the go for the second half of the range.
800 - usually a bit of a gimme - was anything but with 50's scarce only a few per board. The wind from the right at around 4 to 5 on the clock was ranging from as little as 2.5 and as much as 6 or 7 throughout a stage.
Just before the start of 900 yards conditions seem similar the conclusion to this day I'm sure will see quite a few dramas with this wind the further we get back.
Daily Report Day 2 #1 - 9th October 2011 @ 9.00am by Ben Emms
Day 2 has dawned a beautiful picture perfect Queensland day - one which the tourism board would be proud of!
Shooting has commenced for the third range of the President's from 600 yards. Only the lightest zephyr of a breeze from the right for the first shooter but now as I write the wind is slowly picking up as the day begins to warm. First shooters all seem to be getting up with 50's so looks like its going to be a high scoring day - well the morning at least!
As today is heavily weighted toward the longer ranges maybe it shall give us a bit more of a guide as to who the heavy hitters are going to be over the coming days. Once again well done to the organisers of last nights function a top class effort from all concerned.
Daily Report Day 1 #3 - 8th October 2011 @ 9.30pm by Ben Emms
With the first day of competition in this series of matches the standard on display was of the highest order.
The rain cleared away by lunch time to allow the individual matches to commence unhindered with only the lightest of breezes disturbing the flags. The President's kicked off at 300 metres with the full gallery of 48 targets in use for the 400+ competitors. Richard Jeens of Great Britain kept the British theme of the day running being the best of five 50.9's just counting out Wendy Moon of the strong Wingham club and also of the Australian Rifle Team.
500 yards with conditions possibly calmer than at 300 and with a more generous target saw scores higher and the numbers of them increase. Seven 50.10's were recorded for the range with another twenty 50.9's added to the list. Indications of how tight this weeks competition will be if conditions remain light. These ICFRA targets can lend themselves to high scores in light conditions but bring and then we will see the field open up.
The opening ceremonies were held on the lawn outside the QRA function area this evening with Master of Ceremonies Neil Gibbins getting things under way in a faultless fashion. After the opening address given by NRAA President Major General Michael Jeffery and music from the Wynnum Manly Brass Band a fine display of fireworks brought the evening to successful conclusion. The first days aggregate concludes tomorrow morning at 600 yards and then we are marching back up the hill over 8,9 and 1000 so a full day's shooting ahead.
Daily Report Day 1 #2 - 8th October 2011 @ 1.30pm by Ben Emms
The Provincial Teams have been run and won and maybe in a sign of things to come the British came home with money with GB - Jane Messer finishing clean with 600.82. Nigel Ball topped the squad and possibly the rain with 100.19. Due to the rain and delayed start both stages were shot at 300 meters.
Now for a quick lunch and back to 300 for the commencement of the President's series. More details later this evening
Daily Report Day 1 #1 - 8th October 2011 @ 8.30am by Ben Emms
Well here we are, first day of these long awaited championships, and down comes the rain! Heavy storms are passing over Brisbane as I pen this column. The provincial teams start has been delayed until a decision at 9 am - half an hour away - to be honest a start looks unlikely until after lunch.
Let's hope the storm cells pass and things clear before this match is canned.
Daily Report - 7th October 2011 by Ben Emms
Welcome to the daily reports for the World Long Range Championship for 2011 which promises to be an outstanding three week festival of marksmanship, comradeship & above all fun, relaxation and hopefully more than just a little sunshine!
Forecasts for the coming days show more than just a little rain around so we can nearly all count on getting wet at some stage over the coming week or two. Entries for the Queens are at around 500 entries with over 370 for the World's. With the best riflemen & women from around the world assembled the absolute highest standards are going to be on display for the next three weeks.
After a couple of days of practice tomorrow will see hostilities open in earnest with a two range teams match to start the day for provincial teams of 6 followed by the first two ranges of the President's in the afternoon.
Best of luck to all competitors if nothing else we hope you enjoy the coming competiton renew old friendships and forge many new ones.
Reports will be posted every afternoon and thoughout the day if time permits.