(Match Report by Tyler Patner) August 20, 2023
33 shooters turned up for the August match at NOA on a warm, sunny Sunday the 20th. The forecast called for a high around 90 degrees, so we opted to set the course in the shade of the woods. While this gave shooters a reprieve from the sun, it also made finding many of the targets a challenge. Even light blue painted targets were hard to see in some of the darker/denser spots.
We had two brand new shooters joining us for their first FT match, and both did very well considering the difficulty of the course. Beyond the lighting, the course was set at a near 34.5T in preparation for the Pyramyd Cup next weekend. 20 of 30 targets were at or over 40 yards and of those 20, 10 were over 45. It was a long course, but it was not without technical shots either. Many of the targets between 40-45 yards were 1” to 1.25” as an added challenge, with a few closer small KZ targets as well. While there wasn’t much wind to contend with, there were moments where the breeze could be felt.
It was a long, grueling day on the course as three shooter squads typically take a bit longer. But everyone hung in there and we were treated to pizza after the match concluded. We had a few ties to decide, but all shooters involved decided that a coin flip was sufficient.
As scores came in, it seemed the course difficulty definitely showed up in a number of shooters scores. For those sitting on the ground, Keith Walters shot a solid 54 in Open PCP with Jeff Paddock and Lucas Marusiak both posting 49’s in WFTF PCP. Lucas took the W in a coin flip. In WFTF Piston, Tyler Patner posted a 44 to best John Cerne who had some late match scope troubles.
Of those shooting higher off the ground, Al Duster posted a 42 to take top honors in Hunter Piston. In Unlimited, we had a changing of the guard at the top, with Tim Baylor posting a great 55. And in Hunter PCP, Bill Rabbitt shot a stellar 58 to win the division.
Some great scores on a challenging course. We appreciate everyone who came out, those who helped set up for the match and those that helped tear down. Next week’s action is down at the Cardinal Shooting Center, where the Pyramyd Cup GP will be taking place. Good luck to everyone attending.
Until next time, stay safe and we will see you on the lanes.
