The expected scores are calculated using the latest BFTA grading percentages.Eddie = 60% 0f 80 = 48
Greg = 45% 0f 80 = 36
Paul = 45% of 80 = 36
Shaun = 70% of 80 = 56
Journey time to Castle is just over an hour and the weather as we headed north looked perfect for shooting. The Castle 80 consists of two courses of 40 targets; one course is shot in the morning then after lunch the other. As suggested by its ability to hold two courses Castle is an extensive ground, most of the targets today were in woodland with a few sited in the field adjacent to the wood.
After a short briefing we went to our lanes and a hooter indicated it was time to start. Eddie, Paul and Shaun were shooting together. Greg paired up with, 3rd place in the World, Andy Gillott. Conditions were perfect; there was no wind and the temperature was pleasant. The only factor likely to add to the difficulty of long ranges and mini kills was the darkness of the wood; it caught the camera out too!
Despite the benign environment the Bananas found the going tough. Eddie was suffering at long range; he found it necessary to shoot below the kill to gain success. Paul also had to shoot low in the kill to knock them over. Shaun was having trigger trouble and all of us were struggling with mini kills. This is certainly an area we all must practise before next year's 80. With Greg shooting with Andy we had no knowledge of how he was doing but when our paths crossed he revealed his score of 21 ex 26 which put him well in front. However, this seemed to steel Shaun and he set off on a good run to post a first round score of 31.Round 1
Shaun = 31 (+3)
Greg = 28 (+10)
Paul = 23(+5)
Eddie = 23(-1)
Top score from the morning round was 38 shared by Andy Gillott and Andy Calpin. Our group of three had shot on the next lane to Mr Calpin who took many of the targets kneeling! We did gain great pleasure when our trio was all successful in knocking over one that he had missed; if we can hit one we can hit them all!
After essential nutrition, bacon and egg baps, we set off for the pm shoot determined to improve upon our morning scores. For the gang of three it was a disappointing start, after six shots 2, 2 and 4 were all we had. Maybe Greg was doing better? As we moved to the far end of the course a little wind paid a visit and for a few lanes windage adjustment was needed. Shaun was again enjoying a good run, Eddie seemed to have mastered where to shoot but Paul was having a mare. Then the shooting gods decided to smile on Paul as he began a run of eight straight, it seems the gods can only look out for one Banana because Paul's success coincided with Shaun slipping off the rails. However, he did recover and all three shooters enjoyed a good finish to round 2.
Final Scores
Shaun = 31 + 30 = 61(+5)
Greg = 28 + 26 = 54(+18)
Eddie 23 + 25 = 48(-)
Paul = 23 + 20 = 43(+7)
So Shaun retained the CB Cup and Greg overwhelmingly held on to the CB Shield. Andy Gillott was top dog he added a clearance to his morning score to win on 78.
Our thoughts turned to the pub but more drama was to follow. Greg had tied for first place in C grade and a shoot-off ensued. Greg was at best pensive moving towards petrified! Unfortunately he came second; maybe beta blockers next time Greg!
So Greg was second in C grade and Shaun likewise in B, both received cheques for £20
Millride was well represented. Here are a few of the guys in varying states of happiness; go on Ian smile. One Millrider not shown who deserves congratulations is Roy Boliver who placed third in C grade. Well done Roy!!
It had been an excellent day's shooting, many thanks to the Castle crew, but now our thoughts were of Weatheroak ale and Asian cuisine. Upon arrival at the Coach and Horses we were met with some devastating news; no Weatheroak ale now or in the future. We consoled ourselves with four different pints but none had the majesty of our favourite. Next destination was the Dilshad where we enjoyed a hearty meal and no doubt frightened the staff and their cliental
Another summer season is over and the Winter League beckons. First round is at Far Coley on the 28th September; please no wind!! So it's goodbye from Bananablog let's hope the Bananas are back on tour next year!
