MINIATURE RIFLE RANGE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXII, Issue 931, 15 December 1910, Page 2

MINIATURE RIFLE RANGE.

The local school cadets miniature rifle range which has been built on the railway reserve near the racecourse was officially opened by Mr Alf. Fraser, representative of the Southern Ward on the Wanganui Board, yesterday afternoon. The cadets, in charge of Captain Gabites, marched trom the school to the range, where they were drawn up in line whilst the opening ceremony was performed. Mr Fraser, in his opening remarks, expressed pleasure that he should have been asked to open the range. He impressed on the cadets the necessity for all being taught to use a rifle and the good, from a health and strength point of view, derived from a course of military training. He said they should not be disheartened if their shooting at first was not good, but should persevei ve, giving his own experience in this connection as an example that practice and perseverance would eventually overcome almost all difficulties. He said that when he first commenced rifle shooting, for three successive Saturdays, with ten shots on each occasion, he had failed to even hit the target, but he had kept at it and in later years had turned out a fair shot. There was no reason why every cadet present should not, with careful practice, eventually become a fairly good shot with a rifle. Mr Fraser also gave the boys some useful hints on rifle shooting and impressed on them the necessity, if they wished to excel In this sport, for abstaining from the use of tobacco and intoxicating liquor. To become a first-class shot, he said, this course was absolutely essential. If the boys looked up the champion shots of the worid they would find that in practically every case they were non-drinkers and non-smokers. Mr Fraser then fired the first shot which was a good one hitting just below the bull, and declared the range open. He handed Captain Gabites a very handsome medal for competition among the cadets. Captain Gabites thanked Mr Fraser for the very fine trophy and on his call three hearty cheers for that gentleman were given by all present. Immediately after the opening ceremony, shots were fired by the members of the committee present, the teaching staff of the local school, the press representative, and the ladies present, after which the cadets indulged in practice and upon yesterday’s shooting some of the lads promise to turn out real good marksmen. During the afternoon, afternoon tea was handed round and greatly appreciated. In this connection special mention is due to Miss Wanklyn, who worked like a trojan, and supplied the refreshments practically unaided.