The first match of the season delivered everything we could hope for: tight margins, multiple class promotions, and an impressive number of personal bests. The competitive spirit was high, the atmosphere was positive, and if this opening round is anything to go by, we are set for a thrilling 2026 season with our clubs.
In Smallbore Pistol 25m Precision, the headline performance came from Ben Valunta (FRPC) who delivered an outstanding 282.003 in B Class, scoring 282 making it a PB and an X-class score. This looks like it’s going to set the tone for the year ahead! The standard remained high in Smallbore Pistol Timed & Precision 1. Niall Fortune (WBS) led Class A with an exceptional 299.014 another PB to open the season. Ben Valunta (FRPC) was right behind on 297.014, earning silver, a PB, and promotion to A class, and in Class B, Conor Regan (WBS) shot 283.006, taking gold with a PB and earning his move up to A – a major milestone. Henry Lee (WBS) also secured silver in B with a PB performance, highlighting continued improvement across the Wexford squad.
The momentum carried into Smallbore Pistol Multi Target, where sharp transitions and control under pressure are key. John Reynolds (MNSCI) led Class X with a 109.009 – another PB. Again some of the most encouraging performances came from shooters climbing the classes. In Class A, John Dowds (Lough Bo) scored 105.005, securing gold with a PB and an X-class score. Mihails Tarvids (Harbour House) followed with 100.005, earning silver, a PB, and promotion to A class. Several B and A class shooters also posted PBs, showing measurable progression in a discipline where small improvements make a big difference.
If this first match is anything to go by, 2026 won’t just be about podium finishes. It will be about progression, development, and competitors steadily pushing themselves into higher classifications. A very strong and promising start to the season.
Match results can be found here. Scoring challenges will be accepted until midnight Wednesday, 18th February.
The next event scheduled is the “1500 Only” event in Munster Target Shooting Club on 7th March then Bracken on 28th and 29th March. Keep an eye on the Events calendar here on the website for more competition dates in the future.