INTERNATIONAL RIFLE CONTEST.

Globe, Volume IV, Issue 387, 8 September 1875, Page 3

INTERNATIONAL RIFLE CONTEST.

The International Rifile Contest took place on June 29th, at the North Bull Ranges, Dublin, in the presence of an immense number of spectators. At the 800yds range the Irish team made 338 points, and the American 337 ; but at the 700yds range America scored 327 against Ireland’s 292, thus giving the former a majority of 35 points. The total majority of the Americans at the three ranges was 38. The Irish, it must be said, bore their defeat well, but there was great disappointment at the bad shooting made by Milner, which was 23 points less than the lowest score made on the American side, that of Mr Coleman. The three highest gross scores were made by Americans—namely, Major Fulton made 161. out of a possible 180, Colonel Gildersleeve and General Dakin each making 161 ; Mr Wilson, of the Irish team, made 163, and Colonel Bodine and Mr Johnson each made 162. At the conclusion the two teams marched abreast to the members’ tent, Major Leech and Colonel Gildersleeve leading the way. The crowd followed and cheered enthusiastically. Shortly afterwards Major Leech came forward, and, addressing the crowd, said;—“The international match has been lost and won. I suppose that a finer set of riflemen never appeared on any field ; and if we Irishmen have lost, we have lost to most gallant foes. And although I need hardly tell you I should like that we had been first, still, as we are second, to no more honourable foes would I desire to accede the palm. They are distinguished gentlemen, and are worthy of the honour they have achieved. I ask you to give some cheers to Colonel Gildersleeve and the American team.” The cheering having subsided, there were calls for the state of the poll, and Major Leech again came forward, and stated that the Americans had won by 38 points. Colonel Gildersleeve then came forward amid loud cheers, and said : for me to assure you we are very proud at the victory we have won to-day. We have had a fair field and fair play. We feel that we have been contending with the best riflemen in the world. We could not find six other men in our own country able to make the score they have made to-day, I will take this occasion to thank Major Leech for the great courtesy and attention he has shown us, and all of you for the kindness you have shown us in keeping out of our way and giving us fair play. The American team will now join in giving three hearty cheers for Major Leech and the Irish team.” Round after round of cheering was given, and the va-t assemblage dispersed. At night the teams were entertained at a banquet given by the Lord Mayor in the Mansion House, where a distinguished company was invited to meet them.