NSSF Rimfire Challenge at Old Fort Gun Club
National Shooting Sports Foundation 05.12.14
Old Fort Gun Club hosted a NSSF Rimfire Challenge target-shooting competition April 26-27 that attracted 125 competitors in divisions for youth through seniors.
The Rimfire Challenge is a program of the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the trade association for the firearms, ammunition, hunting and shooting sports industry. NSSF Rimfire Challenge was developed to introduce newcomers to target shooting by providing individuals and families with a safe, fun and exciting first-time experience using .22-caliber handguns and rifles and steel targets. Formerly known as the Ruger Rimfire Challenge, NSSF this year assumed administrative responsibilities for the fast-growing program.
“I’d like to thank NSSF for supporting these matches,” said Bill Striplin, match director and Old Fort Gun Club president. “In my opinion, the NSSF Rimfire Challenge is the most fun shooting game in the world. Our match was a huge success, and we look forward to making the next one even better.”
The match attracted target shooters from 10 states. More than 30 participants said it was their first time competing in a shooting event. Thirty-six of the 125 competitors were female, 17 were juniors and 17 seniors, demonstrating the broad appeal of the Rimfire Challenge format.
“The NSSF Rimfire Challenge is designed to be family friendly, affordable and provide a low-key introduction to competition target shooting,” said Zach Snow, NSSF’s Manager of Shooting Promotions. “We commend Old Fort Gun Club for putting on a well-run Rimfire Challenge match.”
Awards were given to the top three finishers in Open and Limited Divisions, along with the top finisher in several Special Recognition categories such as Juniors, Seniors, Ladies and Cowboy/Cowgirl. In addition, all registered participants were eligible to win products provided by program and match sponsors.
A team side match raised $420 that will be donated to the University of Arkansas Shotgun Team through Midway USA Foundation.
Support for the match was provided by Volquartsen Custom, Ruger, Magnum Research, Hogue, Pro Mag, Tactical solutions, Wiley X, A&B Pawn, River Valley Firearm Training, Gellco Outdoors, Fort Chaffee Outfitters, Timney Triggers, Brownells and MidwayUSA.
Old Fort promoted the NSSF Rimfire Challenge competition on its webpage and, following the competition, posted match results, photographs and a highlights video.
Competitors and shooting ranges can learn more about the NSSF Rimfire Challenge at www.nssf.org/rimfire. A schedule of match across the country is also available at the website.
