Page 34 - The Malvernian - July 2022

THE MALVERNIAN
Rifle Club
About Target Shooting
The sport of target shooting involves the use of air rifles, pistols, muzzle-loading rifles and pistols, and cartridge rifles (both rimfire and centrefire). Clay shooting, practical shotgun and practical rifle are also important branches of the target shooting disciplines.
All require concentration, self-discipline and great self-control. Being relaxed and focused is key for hitting the bullseye.
What equipment is used
"Small-bore” rifles (of .22 calibre) are generally used at shorter range such as 25 metres but sometimes out to 100 metres. Larger rifles (termed “full-bore”) are shot at targets over much greater ranges, even up to 1000 metres.
Rifle Range
At Malvern College we are fortunate to have a modern, purpose built 25 metre, 6 lane range. It is used regularly by members of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), the Rifle Club and to run competitions for members of the college teaching and support staff. This year we have fired in the region of 35000 rounds of ammunition and introduced numerous students and staff to the exciting sport of target shooting.
The rifle clubs continued success is down to the shooting captains who are responsible for advertising shoots and booking in the firers for their allotted times.
Andrey Vasilyev (No.7) who has been an outstanding captain, hands over the reins to Sam Shardlow (SH) and Charlotte Quigley (No.3) who will continue to develop the sport of shooting at Malvern.
Competitions
Beachcroft Shield: This is the premier Inter-House shooting competition as well as being the oldest established competition at Malvern. In the Autumn term 6 members of each House compete over a 20-round course of fire to win the coveted Beachcroft Shield. This year the Shield was retained by No.7 after an exhilarating shoot off, congratulations to No.7 and their Capt Andrey Vasilyev.
Staff Christmas Shoot: This in now the corner stone of Christmas events at Malvern which involves 20 teams and over 120 competitors shooting it out for some fabulous prizes kindly donated by local firms, in addition money raised from entry fees was donated to a local charity.
With more students and staff engaging in Target Shooting each term, this challenging sport can only continue to grow and improve.
J Nichols | Master at Arms
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THE MALVERNIAN