Same venue - new range and nearly all new faces. Weather was marvelous and shooters were great. This was the smallest two-day event to date at Hernando, so clearly I need to do more to get the word out.
We were on the HSC's 50 yard range for the first time ever and it worked out very well, with preset target stands. It is a bit quieter and more protected from wind. Too bad the closer position of the berms couldn't make a dent in them dat gum no see-ums - aaaaggghhhh! It's a longer walk to the kitchen, but Tammy's food is worth it.
We had eleven shooters on the line on Saturday and eight on Sunday. Two Riflemen were revealed - Bob, who banged the gong several times, ended up with a 234 (that's nothing to sneeze at!) and Dan brung home a fine 217. Even Bob's grandson, young Bryce nearly made it with a 196! What a trooper he is. I think young Bryce would make a great instructor.
Then there was the husband and wife team of Gene and Candy, who displayed the grit of our storied ancestors and shot very well. Phillip came back to see us and darn near made it this time. In fact, I think he had the score but someone helped him out with some extra rounds on his target - ouch! Phillip took it with his usual easy going nature and pressed on. Always a pleasure sir - hope to see u again soon.
Eric did very well - all the instructors thought he'd be getting a patch. I hope u come back again Eric - I know u can do it.
Saturday went well - a tad behind schedule, but not bad. I asked that all come at 8:AM on Sunday and all showed on time. As such, we got an early start and were able to get plenty AQTs in. We even added an experimental "shoot the storied US battle rifle of your choice" - a concept that Willorith invented. The attendees were offered a chance to shoot an authentic WW2 Garand, an M1 Carbine, and a AR15A2. Bryce went straight for the M16 and then tried the Carbine. Nothing like an ear to ear grin on a well mannered young man to put a smile on a shoot boss' face. I would like to see this new idea take roots, as all seemed to enjoy it. 22s are great, but nothing gets the blood running like a high powered rifle!
We wrapped up a bit early on Sunday to let everyone get home to hand out candy to the kids. It was a great event all around, with much improvement in marksmanship and humbling thanks from good Americans offered to the instructors. To Dan, Rick, Bob, Bryce, Candy, Gene, Lewis, Eric, and Phillip - it truly was an honor to spend time with each of you and I hope to see you again "on the trail".
Many thanks,
PHenry
