FSA’s fifth field target match of 2025 was held on Sunday August 24. We enjoyed a break from the oppressive heat as the temperatures stayed in the upper 70’s for most of the day. The sky alternated between overcast and sunny, and the wind was mild, though present on several lanes.
The course was a difficult 34.13 Troyer. The standing and kneeling targets were some of the easier ones we’ve ever had. But the middle targets were extremely difficult with kill zones at near maximum distance. There were only 10 targets over 40 yards. Many mentioned the difficulty of the targets with dark face plates in dark and shaded positions.
For the most part, the targets functioned well. The target tester was only used one time, but we had a couple cold lines to remove some stems and leaves that managed to obscure a KZ. We did have the most unusual occurrence in our 5 years of running matches. Just after the course was called hot, Lucas requested a marshal as he couldn’t see his first target. My first thought was “that’s silly, how can you not see a target, especially the near one”. But oddly enough, you couldn’t see it. It turns out that the massive tree stump that the target was on, about four and a half feet high and 2 feet across had rotted out and tipped over during the night. It had been solid enough to screw a target down on it and survive use for several years. We ended up using the target, placing in on a cement block, and the match continued.
We had a field of 18 with all but one representing the Hunter PCP class (the odd man out was shooting WFTF PCP). The lone WFTF PCP shooter, Lucas Marusiak, shot the second highest score of the day, a 51. In hunter PCP, Ryan Spanagel shot the match high score of 53 to take first place. In second place with a 50 was Doug Cunningham. The father and daughter duo of Brandon and Kelsie Michaud ended up tied at 48 with third place hanging in the balance. After an evaluation of clean lanes and force positions, Kelsie was declared third place.
Now for the heroes of the day. We had the most help cleaning up that we’ve ever had. Without hesitation, Nick, Paul, Brandon and Ana Rose stuck around and helped Ryan and I make quick work of the course tear down. The help was fantastic and very much appreciated, especially for those that still had a long drive ahead of them.
Though no one used our DRS loaner gun this match we want to recognize those responsible for its existence. The rifle was donated by High Pressure Pneumatics and is outfitted with a Sidewinder courtesy of Hawke Optics, a moderator donated by Donny FL, a Scope-Werks wheel, and shooting JSB pellets from Predator International. These companies have outstanding products, and we encourage everyone to consider them for your airgun related purchases. And don’t forget Baker Airguns who is also a sponsor that continues to be a friend and supporter of airgun clubs.
Thanks to all who attended,
Jeff Swartz and Ryan Spanagel