New twist up in PNSA shootfest

MANILA, Philippines - Aside from accuracy, speed, of course, is also of premium when the Philippine National Shooting Association (PNSA) stages the first-ever 2011 Sniper Shooting Competition tomorrow at the Taytay Tactical Rifle Range in Rizal.

Veering away from the normal “take-your-time” practice, participants in the .22 (small bore rifle) will have an “open” time to hit and complete his or her targets – a new formula that is expected to add challenge and thrill to the tournament.

“That’s the new twist,” said PNSA president and Harbour Centre CEO Mikee Romero. “That’s a challenge to the participants. They have to be sharp and fast.”

Tournament director Boy Banaag said the introduction of the “open” time will speed up the competition, saying: “We expect a huge field, so if one participant will be given a one minute to complete his or her routine then that will take a lot of time.” “Kung “open” ang time, at mabilis ka, you have a good advantage na. At maganda niyan, matatapos ng maaga ang tournament, di katulad noon na inaabot kami ng gabi,” added Banaag.

The .22 (small bore rifle), according to Romero, is the first part of the two-event shootfest aimed at increasing awareness in the sport.

The other – the high-powered rifle – is slated on Aug. 26-28. It will be highlighted by a demo by the crack shooters of the Philippine Marine Corps.

Banaag said the small bore rifle event will be classified into three – semi-auto, bolt action and biathlon.

“The event will signal the start of the rifle aggrupation growth. The .22 shooting community is growing rapidly because it’s affordable and anybody can shoot in this event,” said Romero.

Shooters from Luzon, including from Rizal under Taytay Mayor Joric Gacula, are expected to face stiff challenge from Cebu, Davao, Bacolod and Iloilo.

Among the favorites are Randy Paronda, Galahad Vicencio, Mayor Gacula, Randel Tambungco, Jojie San Victores, Lester Carigo, Joe Guerrero and Louie Gonzales.

Romero, however, expects a close call, adding that: “Everybody’s wants the bragging rights as the country’s top rifle shooter.”

For additional information, send queries at [email protected],ph or call Lanie Halili at 0927-589-9133.