MINIATURE RIFLE CLUB

Hokitika Guardian, 7 September 1926, Page 1

MINIATURE RIFLE CLUB

The Westland Miniature Rille Club was opened last evening at the range set up in the Soldiers’ Hall. There was an excellent attendance and much interest evinced, indicating that the Club should prove a great success now that it is well under way. Mr S. G. Sharman, who was the promoter of the Club, having been identified with similar organisations formerly on the East Coast, has been enthusiastic in launching the local Club. He organised the local range and had it set up at a minimum of cost, thanks to the co-operation of several who rendered ready help when requested. Several willing workers co-operated also, and the result was a very satisfactory range.

Several ladies and gentlemen were in attendance last night. Some last minute preparations had to be made, but shortly after eight o clock Mr Sharman tried out the rifles and registered several good shots. When all preparations were complete, the President (Air Evans) read the rules governing care and discipline in the conduct of the firing, and stated the range would be in charge of the Captain of the Club (Mr Sharman). That officer was congratulated also on the splendid work he had done in organising the Club, and bringing the enterprise to a success. Miniature rifle shooting was now in vogue as a pastime in most centres, and it was an interesting and pleasurable sport. Mr Evans in declaring the range open wished the Club every surcess. A hearty round of applause was accorded My Sharman. the Captain, in appreciation of what he had done to assure the success of the Club. Mr Sharman replied briefly thanking those present for the acknowledgement made of his services. The Secretary, Mr C. Gnylor, then took the names of those shooting, and the ladies and gentlemen present fired in pairs, two rifles being available. Some very good shooting resulted. The following were the principal scores made: Messrs M. Hutchison 61. R. Appleton 53, J. Morris 50, AY. Wallace, C. Evans 46, J. ITavill 43, R. Paterson 42, A. Wallace, M. Sweney, V. Bergamini 40, R. Ilowartli 39, J. AA’. Haile 38, H. Johnston 37. T. Stuart 28, D. .T. Evans 07 Miss M. King 38, Airs Paterson 33, Afisses AYnllnec 2S, Coles 2G, J. Preston 18. Jean Mclntosh 13. Next Monday there willdie a competition for the President’s prizes, consisting of greenstone trinkets. It is hoped as soon as funds suffice to procure two extra rifles, and enlarge the range to four targets, permitting of more shooting in the evening. It is intended also, if sufficient ladies eome forward to set apart a separate night for the ladies. After next Monday team matches will be arranged, when no doubt some interesting contests will take place. The range last night gave general satisfaction, but further improvements are to he made, as some of the preparations eoukl only he temporary owing to the hurried nature of the occasion. The lighting on the targets will he increased, and improved mound accommodation provided. The success which marked the opening night of miniature rifle shooting promises well for the future, particularly as country residents are taking so much interest in the movement.