The February 25m Rifle Clinic at Fernan Rod & Gun Club was both a success and a mild disappointment. A success, because the participants enjoyed themselves and we had some impressive accomplishments and improvements. A disappointment, because although we had Winterseed patches on hand to award to any Riflemen who qualified, we had unseasonably warm weather (high 40's!) and it just did not qualify as a Winterseed on the "misery index". The disappointment was only mild, however, because the weather itself was mild, making for a pleasant weekend outdoors.
We had a small group, which gave us the opportunity for more one-on-one coaching. Thanks to Snow Snake, Mr. Clean, and Kjrr for coming out as instructors and helping things to run smoothly. Congratulations to XJ for re-qualifying as a Rifleman as well as shooting not one, but two distinguished rifle scores (240 and 241) on the same day! His son earned a "Road to Rifleman" certificate with a high score of 191 - "knocking at the door" of Rifleman. Our other father-son pair were first-time Appleseeders, and were very attentive and safety-conscious as they established and practiced the foundational skills that will lead them to Rifleman scores in the future. A Rifleman persists!
Thanks and congratulations to Kjrr for instructing at his first event and passing the IIT1 PC. Further thanks to XJ for stepping up to volunteer as an instructor, and to his son for volunteering for Applecore. Our other shooter had to leave early and couldn't make it back on Sunday, but has since reached out and volunteered for Applecore as well. We look forward to a good year helping each of these volunteers develop in their chosen roles. Thank you all for stepping up to support Liberty!