Clay Target Shooting
Clay Target Shooting at PNBHS is a small but enthusiastic group. We cater for everyone from the person wanting to get a little better at duck shooting, through to the seriously competitive young man. Students can do as much, or as little, of this sport as they wish.
We are very lucky to have the support and facilities of the Palmerston North Gun Club and master coach Mr Gordon MacPhee - who is nationally recognised and does a wonderful job with our boys.
PNBHS has consistently produced very competitive and well respected Clay Target Shooting teams. In recent years our senior teams and individuals have been very successful with numerous island and national titles.
The main school season operates from May until October, but students can shoot in the club circuit all year round. Parents are welcome to join and become involved, so it is also a great way for parents to join in a sporting code with their sons. During the school season we run regular training / coaching session, with either club or school competition shoots on every Sunday.
The school operates two groups within clay target shooting - a 'Newbies' group and the 'Competition' shooters. The 'Newbies' group is for first year shooters or those learning the basic skills and techniques. This is run by Mr Higgie. Times and venues vary, but he endevours to average once every two weeks. The Competition shooters are coached by Mr Gordon MacPhee and compete in the 'local' circuit [ Lower North Island ] as well as Island or National championships.
New shooters are required to attend a safety and introduction meeting, followed by an introduction shoot at the Palmerston North Gun Club. After the establishment of safety expectations and initial instruction, students can attend regular 'Newbie' training sessions. Once they have completed these steps, they are welcome to join the Palmerston North Gun Club and attend club shoots as well as PNBHS coaching/training sessions. It is hoped that keener first year boys will work their way into the school competition teams ( either during the season or at the start of their second year ).
PRACTICES:
Coaching/training sessions occur on Saturday afternoons and competition days are on Sunday. Trainings occur at various clubs and venues depending on availability.
Getting started:
The first steps are to get an information sheet and attend the information / safety meeting. Mr Higgie will advertise these through the school notices during the middle of Term One.
The second step is to attend the 'intro' shoot at Palmerston North Gun Club. This is usually the 2nd Saturday in March.
Following these steps boys can become involved in one of our two groups ( depending on their skills and experience ).
