🎯 Last Monday, we had the opportunity to visit Wigan Target Sports Club and meet members at their state-of-the-art facility in Poolstock.
🧱 Originally formed as Wigan Rifle Club in 1961, the group has had various bases over time, but built their current home in 2003. The two-storey building is bespoke-designed and consists of three target ranges: 10-metre for air rifle and pistol; 25-metre and 50-metre for firearms from .22 rimfire up to .455 centre fire pistol calibre, each with their own preparation rooms.
📍 Amazingly, the club’s 50-metre indoor target range is one of only two in the UK (the other is in Bisley, Surrey). Because of this speciality, the club hires out the ranges for the training of the Olympic and Paralympic Squads, as well as Talent and Development Squads.
🏁 It was in September 2003 that operations began at the current base, accompanied by a new name: Wigan Target Sports Club. Since then, the club has flourished with members regularly travelling from all over the country, participating in the various open competitions and shoulder to shoulder events.
🙌 There are currently over 60 members, ranging from 15-85, male and female, all of whom participate equally in various competitions. In the last four years, the club has worked with British Shooting, who are responsible for coaching the national and international shooters.
❤️ Whilst we were there, we had the chance to meet Olivia, a club member and recent silver medalist, who looks to have a bright future in the sport. It was great to see that all across the club, no matter someone’s age, gender, or physical ability, everyone is able to take part as equals and enjoy the sport.
👏 A huge thank you to the club’s Secretary, Michael, for inviting us down, and to all the members who gave us a very warm welcome. We look forward to working with you going forwards.
- Cllr Draper & Cllr Dawber
Comments
Post a Comment