Weekends meeting at Blackcats, Swindon
Posted: Mon Jun 11, 2018 3:49 pm
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)
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)