On Target Shooting Club member Patrick Azzopardi won the Bench-rest 0.22 Rifle competition which was held recently at the ranges in Magħtab.

The shoot was the first in a series of three staged under the auspices of the UK Smallbore Rifle Association and sponsored by Eley Ltd, an international ammunition firm.

Eight shooters took part and despite the unfavourable weather conditions some excellent scores were achieved.

In fact, Azzopardi placed first with an almost perfect 399/400.

He was followed by Suzanne Azzopardi (Patrick’s wife) on 392 points with Mario Spiteri third, having targeted a remarkable tally of 387.

Results will now be sent to the UK Smallbore Rifle Association where Maltese shooters will be classified along with other foreign shooters involved in this popular international competition.

The shoot at Magħtab was judged by National Smallball Rifle Association representative and licensed RCO Lawrence Darmanin. He was assisted by Sonia Bezzina Wettinger.