Some GSSE sport associations are experiencing difficulties to assemble squads and reach established MQSs in the build-up to Cyprus 2009. The Malta Shooting Sport Federation (MSSF) are definitely not among the doubters though as they are close to finalising their team for the Games between June 1 and 6.
Lately, there have been reports in the media of some major withdrawals from Team Malta, including the likes of Darren Gilford (athletics) and Ryan Gambin (swimming).
Other major contenders and former GSSE medallists are also struggling for form just weeks before the opening ceremony in Nicosia.
But, the MSSF made sure of staying away from controversy and for the past two months they have been staging selection shoots in trap, double-trap and skeet with the top two in each category earning the right to form part of Team Malta.
Two others from the indoor target shooting will also make the cut.
Despite the loud bangs of the guns and the smashing of clays, the process at Bidnija has been proceeding smoothly and without too much noise.
So far, the selections for double trap and skeet have been completed and the ones in trap and target shooting will be finalised this month when the decisive rounds will be held.
There was no surprise in double trap as William Chetcuti secured a fourth successive GSSE berth after topping the leaderboard in all four selection shoots.
Chetcuti, now seeking a third successive GSSE gold medal, will have nephew Derek Bonanno with him. The latter, still a teenager, has claimed the other double trap slot available thanks to his runner-up position in the overall standings.
In skeet, the MSSF will be represented by emerging talent Clive Farrugia and veteran Paul Vella, the dominant figures in the selection shoots.
For Farrugia this will be his first GSSE but the same cannot be said of Vella. He is a regular in the MSSF team at this level with a silver medal in Malta 2003 ranking as his best result ever.
Long-time MSSF president Saviour Portelli is optimistic.
"We are heading to Cyprus with a very competitive squad," he told The Times.
"In skeet and double trap we have a blend of experience and youth. William and Paul have been in these Games for many years but for Derek and Clive this will be their first participation.
"Derek and Clive are future prospects. While Derek has little experience abroad, Clive has now competed in various international events, also achieving some excellent results last year.
"Qualifying for the GSSE was no easy feat as they had to battle with the older guys, so credit to them to have achieved their goal."
In trap, competition for the two places is close as ever, Portelli said, also refraining from making predictions. One competitor who is certainly out of the reckoning though is Jeff Tonna.
The Australia-based shooter figured in the opening two trap selection shoots but his results were below par. He has now decided to pull out and return home.
However, the MSSF can still rely on two other shooters from 'Down Under'.
Portelli confirmed this week that Rebecca Madyson and Kate Cassar have already been selected to represent our country in women's trap.
"Cyprus will mark a first as never before in the history of the GSSE has Malta fielded a team in women's trap. Rebecca and Kate, both of Maltese descent, will be with us and in our team for Nicosia.
"Rebecca is a popular personality in our sport after an historic silver medal in the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealths," Portelli said.
"Kate is still 21 but with enough potential to do well in the GSSE. We have been monitoring her progress lately and she achieved some encouraging results.
"Cyprus and San Marino will also field their top shooters in women's trap. It's not going to be easy but I'm confident that, at least, one of ours will make the podium."
The MSSF team in Cyprus will also comprise two target shooters in air rifle and air pistol. Competitions here are still in process with the final shoot scheduled for this weekend.
At present, William Vella is the favourite in air-rifle and Ray Cacciatolo leads the way in air-pistol.
Looking ahead, Portelli said competition in Nicosia is going to be tight.
"When putting things into perspective, the level of shooting in the GSSE is of a much higher standard compared to the other sport in the Games," he said.
"Cyprus and San Marino are always in the forefront and field the best shooters available, including world champions.
"But, we also boast top-quality performers in our squad.
"William is a GSSE gold medallist and Paul Vella is another strong competitor just to mention a few.
"We planned carefully and left no stone unturned these past two years to assemble our squad. Our hopes are for our shooters to return home with excellent results and, possibly, a good tally of medals."