Ramah CO, 12/19 April 2014

[Gear Head Patriot]

In order to afford our students the opportunity to enjoy Easter, the Ramah CO Patriot weekend shoot was split between two Saturdays.  Both Saturdays proved to be excellent events with an outstanding group of students and instructors. 

BrassBucket opened our history on April 12th with a moving First Strike that really got the shoot started.  While our shooter headcount was low, what they lacked in numbers in they made up for in enthusiasm.  Offy closed out the day with a great rendition of the 3rd Strike, also meeting one of the tough IIT4 requirements, moving him one step closer to his Instructor hat.

The second weekend included an expanded student count, largely thanks the 7th stepping of our students and instructors.  We fired our Patriot Volley in remembrance of those who fell on 19 April 1775 promptly at 2 p.m., after framing the importance of the event with a reading of the handbill published after the battle.  While all the shooters progressed in their marksmanship skills, one demonstrated that he knew what he was about earning the coveted Rifleman score. 

We've built a solid team of instructors here in Colorado, particularly the group that's been so dedicated to Ramah.  It absolutely blew me away how pro-active each instructor was, and how committed they are to the development of each individual shooter!  It's their efforts that really make the clinics such a testimate in fellowship. 

[Gear Head Patriot]

Picture 1, apparently 1 at a time....

[Gear Head Patriot]

Here's another one...  BrassBucket teaching IMC.

[Gear Head Patriot]

Another one...

[Gear Head Patriot]

The Dud teaching IMC.

[BrassBucket]

Can't say enough what a wonderful two days this was for me as an instructor. The shooters were incredibly receptive to feedback (and thankful!) and that made it all worth it.

Our two return shooters, Andrea and Mike, really got to see how tiny changes such as follow through and slowing down to really get to a respiratory pause can affect each and every shot. It is always nice to see groups suddenly tighten up and the shooter genuinely receives feedback from the target.

Roman and Peter came in shooting well and left shooting even better. So glad Roman was able to take home the coveted Rifleman's patch and hope someday to see him in orange! Peter is a hairs-breadth away from Rifleman and was an absolute pleasure to coach.

Our younger (well, younger than me) shooters were a blast to work with and it was great that our instructors were able to 7th step a few more people onto the line.

We had a few new faces on the second Saturday but it only helped to reinforce the basics for everyone and give us as an instructor corps the opportunity to go even more in-depth.

Overall two Saturdays well-spent and I hope to see some familiar faces at upcoming shoots!