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Weekends meeting at Blackcats, Swindon

Posted: Mon Jun 11, 2018 3:49 pm
by long jon
I read about the meeting with some trepidation. I am new to air rifle shooting and what I know has been mostly self taught.

I felt sure that if I went I would be looked down on and treated very much as a beginner who shouldn't be there.

Well I decided to go - after all it was £20 only for the weekend (much of which goes to charity). So nothing to lose. I could always turn round and go home if they didn't like me, or me them.

My fears were immediately dispelled. The guys who organised the weekend encouraged me to come along despite my inexperience.
When I arrived I was very warmly met by Davy (who ensured everything about the weekend ran well) and the other guys from Blackcats and AAOC.
I was soon introduced to everyone and made to feel at home.

In addition to the camaraderie, one of the biggest values of the weekend for me was the amount of free, expert, advice I received from the guys, including Ray and Julian.
Davy went out of his way to ensure I took part in the competitions despite my crocked back and Alf showed so much patience and guidance when taking me round the HFT competition - my very first time.

To anyone else who is a member of AAOC and a little unsure about how you will be received - please don't be. Without exception everyone was helpful and only too pleased to explain all about air rifles and shooting. Several of the guys offered me the opportunity to shoot their personal rifles.

Do go along to the next meeting - I guarantee you will enjoy it.
rgds
Jon
(long jon)

Re: Weekends meeting at Blackcats, Swindon

Posted: Mon Jun 11, 2018 5:34 pm
by GrandadG
Good evening Jon,
Glad you enjoyed your first meet with us, and it was a pleasure to meet you and have a chat around the fire with a cuppa!
It doesn't matter how old or young you are, in good health or not. You will be welcomed and looked after by the best bunch of people you could ever wish to meet.

See you at the next one Jon.
ps
Try to stay later for an evening around the fire ;) ;) :o :mrgreen:
Regards
Graham.

Re: Weekends meeting at Blackcats, Swindon

Posted: Mon Jun 11, 2018 5:53 pm
by eboswan
GrandadG wrote:
Mon Jun 11, 2018 5:34 pm
Good evening Jon,
Glad you enjoyed your first meet with us, and it was a pleasure to meet you and have a chat around the fire with a cuppa!
It doesn't matter how old or young you are, in good health or not. You will be welcomed and looked after by the best bunch of people you could ever wish to meet.

See you at the next one Jon.
ps
Try to stay later for an evening around the fire ;) ;) :o :mrgreen:
Regards
Graham.
And you can also have a photo with tim ;) :lol: :lol:

Re: Weekends meeting at Blackcats, Swindon

Posted: Tue Jun 12, 2018 9:51 am
by bgaltd
it was an absolute pleasure to meet you Jon . i'm glad that your rifle is shooting better now the trigger has been adjusted correctly for you .

ring me if you need any further advice or just want a chat .

Rgds.

Julian.

Re: Weekends meeting at Blackcats, Swindon

Posted: Tue Jun 12, 2018 7:28 pm
by long jon
hi graham thanks for the kind words . hope to meet again soon
rgs
jon

Re: Weekends meeting at Blackcats, Swindon

Posted: Wed Jun 13, 2018 4:00 am
by Timmytree
So glad you enjoyed it Jon, there's nothing snobby or elitist about your average airgunner, we're there for the fun and want everyone to enjoy it. I hope using sticks in future will be of benefit to your shooting.

Re: Weekends meeting at Blackcats, Swindon

Posted: Wed Jun 13, 2018 4:01 am
by Timmytree
It would be good if someone posted up a few photos but not all! :mrgreen:

Re: Weekends meeting at Blackcats, Swindon

Posted: Wed Jun 13, 2018 3:21 pm
by davyt63
Nice to meet you John,glad you enjoyed the week end.