Dundee’s young marksman has sights set on world title
FC started shooting when he was just eight as a result of his father, Derich, being himself a highly skilled shooter.
At just 13, FC Eicker has set his sights on claiming a World Championship title in practical pistol shooting.
The Dundee Junior learner has earned countless medals in his quest to ‘hit the top’, with his most recent being a third place in the junior under 18 category in a national shooting competition in Limpopo.
FC said he competes in two disciplines – pistol calibre carbine and practical pistol shooting – and has shot against the country’s best in provincial league matches.
In 2022, he competed in the South African Championships, where he achieved fourth place in his category.
He took part in the SA Pistol Shooting Championships in Cape Town in March and came home with first place in the super junior category (14-18-year-olds).
But he was not done yet!
In May, the young marksman took part in the PCC National Championships in Gauteng and again finished first in the super junior division and third in the SA champ finals out of 15 competitors.
“We are now gearing up for the World Championships, which will be held in South Africa in September 2025 for the first time in many years,” FC told the Courier.
“Selection of the team starts in November with a shoot in North West and other trials in Port Elizabeth and Trichardt.”
While he is undoubtedly confident of making the cut, FC is not taking anything lightly and his family is right behind him as he goes through his paces of keeping fit by doing weight training and keeping in shape with lunges, squats and associated exercises.
These are important when it comes to maintaining balance while shooting.
Efficiency of movement
“Shooting requires great discipline and concentration, as efficiency of movement and accuracy all go towards ensuring a high scoring factor.”
Shooters are presented with a ‘stage’ at championships and have to quickly weigh up how best they will go about taking on the targets, taking into account the course and their positioning – all against the clock.
While using about 500 rounds of ammunition a week for practice at the Aalwynskop course, FC also does ‘dry runs’ – even at home – to keep his eye speed up to transitioning from target to target and to keep his hand-eye co-ordination at the top of its game.
He says shooting is a healthy sport that calls for great composure, with safety being a paramount concern.
Derich is grateful to Octane 10, a company in George, for sponsoring hearing protection – which is critical for anyone taking part in this sport.
“We are very grateful for the Aalwynskop Club and Dundee Junior School for supporting FC and all his endeavours,” Derich said.
As for FC, he cannot wait to bring home a world title to Dundee.
Hit those targets, young man!
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