“Come on, on in”
Competitions are for everyone!
There’s a funny thing that happens at the range: I see perfectly capable, grown adults slow-walk right past a competition like it’s a private party they weren’t invited to. A quick glance in the window, a moment of hesitation… and then off they go, back to the comfort of their usual lane. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—but you are missing out.
The competitions we run aren’t for some exclusive inner circle. They’re one of the most welcoming, energising parts of club life once you actually step in. And that first step usually just involves asking, “Hey, can I join?” No secret handshake required.
What makes competitions so worthwhile is how quickly they level up your skills. Shooting casually is great, but the moment there’s a timer, a scorecard, or even just a few people watching, everything sharpens. You focus more, you think faster, and you start noticing the little details that make a big difference. Suddenly, it all clicks (or at least shows you what needs work).
A worry a lot of people quietly carry is “What if I’m not very good?” Honestly—who cares? Everyone starts somewhere, and most people are far too busy thinking about their own performance to judge yours. You’re not stepping into an arena of perfection; you’re joining a group of people who all had a “first go” at some point. Finishing last, missing shots, it’s all part of the process, and usually something to laugh about afterwards rather than stress over.
Then there’s the atmosphere and the craic. Despite what the thoughts in your head might suggest, most competitors aren’t there to judge—they’re there because they enjoy it. In fact, many are more than happy to help newcomers get started. You’ll often find that the intimidating group you were avoiding turns out to be the most encouraging bunch on the range.
And yes, there’s something quietly satisfying about pushing past that initial awkwardness. Walking in, signing up, and giving it a go might feel like a small act, but it sticks with you. It’s a reminder that confidence isn’t about never feeling unsure—it’s about not letting that stop you.
Of course, the benefits go beyond the social side. Competitions reinforce safety, build consistency, and give your practice a real sense of purpose. Instead of just sending rounds downrange, you’re working toward something—beating your last score, improving your time, or simply finishing with a grin.
So next time you see a competition in progress, don’t do the slow walk-by pretending you’re “just observing.” Take the plunge and chances are, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner!
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