New junior members of Poinsettia Pistol Club in Amanzimtoti are helping the club reach new heights.
Four boys from Glenwood High School with a background in air rifle shooting joined the club in September to learn air pistol, which is a huge difference in competitive shooting.
The boys entered their first ever competition, the Western Province Pistol Championships in the last week in October, and two returned with medals.
Max-Reece van der Merwe (12) of Pinetown won gold in the boys 12-years-and-younger category. These young shootists are allowed to shoot with support during the champs.
READ ALSO: Toti’s top shottists keep KZN team on target at nationals
Matthew Blignaut (14) of Yellowwood Park, who could compete in the boys 14-years-and-younger category, with support allowed, opted to shoot with the seniors, meaning he was standing, unsupported and with one-hand.
This also placed him in the senior grading system of bronze, silver and masters. Matthew was forced to start in the bronze grading, as this was his first competition, but despite this, he won a silver medal.
READ ALSO: Shottists bag national honours
“This was a huge achievement, with him competing against seven seniors in the division,” said Poinsettia Pistol Club and Natal Pistol Association chairman, Danie Reyneke.
“It is awesome for the club to have youngsters joining and then doing so well in their first competition. We hope other youngsters who are interested in competitive shooting see we have the club, facilities, experience and mentorship that can help them achieve these results and we invite them to come and visit the club.” Call Danie on 060-891-9229.
