Looking ahead to the 2022 Clay Shooting Classic
Are you ready to compete for your place on the podium and win some prizes, asks Jasper Fellows
This summer, one of the UK’s finest clay breaking celebrations will return to Orston Shooting Ground. And you could be there.
From 26-29 May top competitive shots and keen amateurs will head to the Nottinghamshire ground to face off against two 75-target English Sporting courses, four 25-target Sportrap layouts and a devilish pool shoot.
The English Sporting event is already shaping up to be something special. Dan Martin, Orston’s director, and Paul Murgatroyd, head groundsman, will again be setting both courses.
Those who shot the 2021 Classic already know of their ability to set targets that are challenging yet accessible.
Tricks
“We will be employing a few tricks of the trade to catch out the pros this year,” said Dan. “But enjoyment will be the overriding factor when creating most of the course. Our super singles will be making a return, as will the telehandlers; we’ve ordered a host of 17m machines to help us create the best course possible.”
If you make it past the trickier targets and to the top of the scoreboards, you’ll be in for a treat. For the first time, The Clay Shooting Classic will also feature a finals day. The top five competitors from each category will be invited back for a 75-target Sporting course on Sunday 29 May to decide who finally climbs to the top of the podium.
There’s more than glory at stake; there’s a brand new Blaser F16, worth more than £3,000, up for grabs for the weekend’s Sporting High Gun, while the top competitors from each category will head home with up to £250 in their pockets.
Cash prizes are also up for grabs in the 100-target Sportrap competition. Split into four courses of 25 targets each, Dan and Paul will once again be aiming to challenge their most skilful competitors, while still providing plenty of more accessible breaks for the rest of us.
Many ESP shots used the Sportrap course as a warm-up
Pool shoot
A Pool shoot will round out the weekend’s competitive events. For a £10 entry fee, plus £2 in the prize pot, shooters will have the opportunity to take money directly from the pockets of their rivals, while also being in with a chance to bag themselves a pair of Pilla shooting glasses.
The Clay Shooting Classic is shaping up to be an event to remember. There will be competitive action, cash prizes, special offers in the Orston gunroom and trade village – and you may even bump into some friendly faces from Sporting Gun, all while enjoying the hospitality that makes Orston one of Britain’s top clay shooting venues.
For more information
The event is open to everyone, with shooters from Class C to AAA, and colts to veterans who are able to take part. Space is filling up fast, so for your chance to take on the pros and maybe bag an F16 book now at https://competitionandeventsschedule.orston.com/.
