THE Wangaratta Clay Target Club is gearing up to host their inaugural 100T Universal Trench Competition, set for a 10am start this Saturday, July 27.

A Universal Trench (U/T) setup was added to the existing range at North Wangaratta in 2021 and has seen shooters locally and from around the region try their aim at the fast-growing and exciting individual discipline.

Per international rules, a U/T layout consists of five traps placed in a trench, fitted with a fixed or hinged roof, and consists of rounds of 25 clays fired at different speeds, elevations, and directions.

The facility has been used extensively as a training range for those competing in international shoots, with local shooters John Wojcik and Phil Matthews in the squad of six Australians heading to France in August for the world titles.

Wangaratta Clay Target Club’s Brian Reid said it was a privilege to have such a high-tech facility on hand.

“Wangaratta is one of the only non-profit clubs in Victoria that offers this form of trap shooting, providing shooters in country Victoria a state-of-the-art range to enjoy their chosen sport,” he said.

“The new activity has been extremely successful as both a training ground for top local and visiting trench shooters, and has also attracted many local members and visitors alike to have a try and this demanding target shooting sport.

“It (the trench) is quite extensive.

“It’s the first competition (at the facility) – up until now, it’s just been a training ground.”

Some dignitaries of the shooting world will be in attendance on the day, with Commonwealth Games shooter Anna Shedrina and Olympian Craig Henwood at the range to impart their knowledge to visiting and local shooters.

Nomination costs are set at $75, with prizes going to the overall first and second in each grade.

While the competition field is capped at 30 shooters, all interested parties are welcome to take in the spectacle and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere at the club.

EFTPOS and canteen will be available on the day.

The Wangaratta Clay Target Club’s inaugural U/T competition shoot is this Saturday, July 27, at the range at North Wangaratta.

For further information about the club’s activities, please contact club treasurer Bob Glossop on 0427 621 195.