USA Shooting and the World Cup

If you remember the 1998 Atlanta World Cup held at the Wolf Creek Olympic Ranges - then, like me, you are more than a little worried about the upcoming shotgun World Cup in Kerrville, TX.

The shotgun portion of the '98 WC was an unmitigated disaster and a national humiliation. The people in charge of that event had no idea how to run a shotgun match.

In those days, USA Shooting was largely staffed by rifle shooters. Now, let's be clear: I've nothing against rifle shooters. However, in 1998, the assumption that a rifle shooter, even one with experience running large rifle matches, could competently run a large, important international shotgun event - was a mistake.

It is my understanding that Wanda Jewel is the match director for the upcoming WC. While I have only met her once, she strikes me as a competent individual. Nevertheless, the question needs to be asked: what is her experience with shotgun matches?

With 300 competitors (50 squads) there will not be time to "learn on the job". I really hope she's got a lot of help.

The Kerrville facility could be a high visability, public relations boon for our sports. But only if we continue to get international events. Another showing like '98 and we may not, in the future, be able to draw the kinds of events that a facility like Kerrville deserves.

My fingers are crossed.