MANILA, Philippines - Maghaharap ang mga crack shooters ng Philippine Marine Corps at Philippine Army’s Marksman Training Unit sa High-Powered Rifle competition ng 2011 Sniper Shooting championship bukas at sa Linggo sa Taytay Tactical Rifle Range sa Rizal.
Sinabi ni Philippine National Shooting Association (PNSA) president Mikee Romero na tiniytak sa kanya ng mga opisyales ng Marines at MTU na isasabak ang kanilang mga best shooters.
“It’s going to be a close call since both units (Marines and Army) are out to prove a point,” wika ni Romero. “A rivalry is good for the sport. That’s the reason why we staged this tournament, we want to increase awareness in this discipline.”
Si three-time ASEAN Army Marksman champion Cpl. Rodeney Rizano ang babandera sa Army team kasama sina veteran instructor Master Sgt. Domingo Agustin at ASEAN winner Cpl. Allan Lao.
Kumpiyansa naman si Romero na ilang civilian shooters rin ang maaaring gumawa ng eksena laban sa mga military personnel.
“There are a lot of good shooters from the civilian side, so expect some surprises,” sabi pa ng Harbour Center CEO na pinasalamatan si Marine Commandant Maj. General Rustico Guerrero.
Ilan sa mga aabangang civilian shooters ay sina Randy Nocom, Taytay Mayor Joric Gacula at Randy Paronda.
Si Paronda ang nagdomina sa Expert Rifleman Semi-Auto at Expert Rifleman Bolt Action divisions ng Small Bore Rifle (.22), habang si Nocom ang naghari sa Semi-Automatic at Bolt Action Experts categories.