Aaron is the top gun once again

Despite a misty morning an abundance of shooters were present, resulting in a total of 19 squads taking on the 100 targets. Competition for the County Down Championship was rife and there were numerous local shooters out to impress.

However the eventual winner did not come as much of a shock.

Aaron Smyth, not for the first time, came away with the victory; winning the silverware after shooting a tremendous 100/299.

There were also several other local shooters who impressed. Rathfriland regular Gary Laffin came out on top in class B, shooting 98/289. Mourne shooters Alan Charleton and Ronald Sloan were also in the prizes, finishing third in class B, and runner-up in AA respectively.

Junior shooter David Henning also impressed once again, finishing second in class A with 99/295.

Final class places were as follows: High Gun – Aaron Smyth. AA 1st, Darren Bell; 2nd, Ronald Sloan; 3rd, I Crooks. A 1st, Alex Buchanan; 2nd, David Henning; 3rd= Martin Laughlin and Davy Gwynne. B 1st, Gary Laffin; 2nd, John Montgomery; 3rd, Alan Charleton. C 1st, N Cochrane; 2nd, Carl Tate; 3rd, NJ White.

The club would like to thank all those who helped in the successful running of the day’s event, with changing of the traps, refreshments, etc.

The club would also like to wish the Northern Ireland clay pigeon team all the very best during their time at the World Championships in South Africa in March. There are various local shooters who will be making the journey, and the club wishes them the best possible fortunes.