The Long Range Rifles Branch of the MLAGB held their annual Metford Trophy match at Bisley on 5/6 August. This challenging aggregate match comprises 15 shots at each distance, 1000, 1100 and 1200 yards. The 1000 yards stage was held on the afternoon of Friday 5 August and the remaining distances the following day and was attended by members from throughout mainland UK, plus Jersey, France and Holland. The 1000 yard stage saw John Whittaker take the lead with 54, followed by Mike Mott (50.1) and David Minshall (49). Moving on to 1100 yards on Saturday morning one of our keen Dutch members, Cees Kalfsvel, made the best score with 57.2. The ever consistent John Whittaker kept the pressure on with 55.1 and was followed by Paul Wolpe (51.2). By this time John was taking a strong lead, 16 points ahead of second place, there then being just 5 points separating the next 5 competitors. With top score again at 1200 yards John Whittaker’s 42 was enough to secure him a comfortable victory. Dave Pearce scoring 39 at 1200 yards took second place both at that distance and overall. C.Bergere fromFrance had the third highest score at 1200 yards with 36.1, but third place overall went to Cees Kalfsvel.
This is a taxing event with a lot of shooting and consistent performance called for. Although there were light winds on Friday, the bright sunshine and passing clouds had mirage playing somewhat with the sight picture. Saturday was characterised by stronger winds, but more consistent light conditions.
Full results are on the web site of the Long Range Rifles Branch of the MLAGB.
David Minshall
