Hunting and shooting enthusiasts from the Cariboo Chilcotin met on Sunday for a Turkey Trap Shoot hosted by Williams Lake Sportsmen’s Association, featuring shotgun challenges for all ages.
Shooters from ages eight to 80 polished their skills in a fun atmosphere, competing for prizes that included turkey, ham, ribs and cash.
There were 10 “shot” events: buddy shoots, Annie Oakleys, bushwhackers and more, with events divided into beginner, intermediate and expert categories.
Steve and Chason Richberg attended from the west Chilcotin and there were others from Quesnel, 100 Mile House and Williams Lake areas.
“This is just great,” said Steve, who explained that this was their first time at the shoot. Chason agreed, stating he was having a blast. Although the two are avid and experienced hunters, they hadn’t had much experience with shotguns. That didn’t stop them from achieving respectable outcomes in shoots including the Bushwhacker, which involved all entrants lining up and trap shooting in twos, right down the line.
The first to shoot goes for the flying target, while the second shooter aims for a fragment. If the second shooter is successful, the first shooter is eliminated, with everyone getting two ‘lives’ in the event.
Adam Veley from the Quesnel Rod and Gun Club said that shooting is a family-oriented, social activity, pointing out that there are often dads, moms and their kids at shooting events throughout the year.
“This is a great way for anyone to polish their skills and stay in shape,” he explained. “It’s more than about the technical aspect—kids also learn things like communication and safety.”