Seminal meeting of air rifle club

Yesterday evening we had our seminal meeting of what may be the first air rifle club in the country. Maybe by organizing ourselves, and cooperating in an activity that contributes so much fun in our lives, we may well be creating national history at the same time. The meeting went well, with many points raised, and many challenges and solutions discovered. A first draft of our club rules was settled on, along with a club name. Issues to enquire about were listed, and the next meeting date was decided.

It is said that “In the multitude of counsel there is wisdom”. The meeting was proof of this, as we accomplished in four hours more than anyone could, on their own, in weeks. I look forward to working on this project with these individuals, who I respect and admire, holding them in high regard.

Air gun shooting is really a fun activity that engenders discipline, focus, commitment, safety and security awareness, leadership, loyalty, cooperation, and good sportsmanship. Many of these qualities are essential for good citizenship. As a bonus, the shooter also develops skills that can put food on the table, and maybe even save lives, in an emergency. It is also evidentially safer than all other sport, as there are zero injuries recorded in this country. How many other sports can claim zero injuries?

To emphasise how air gun shooting develops an individual into a good citizen with the above qualities and skills, we need only to look at the country’s most successful air gun shooter, TT Defence Force Corporal Roger Daniel, who is an accomplished national and regional champion, as well as an Olympic athlete. If you spend five minutes in his company, you’d know what the term ‘quiet professional’ means. A true national role model for our nation’s restless youth.

Once up and running, the club should have programs that targets our youth; involving them in healthy, legal––but more importantly for them––fun activities.

- Trini Funshooter