Young marksman beats some of SA’s best
A young member of the White River Pistol Club recently achieved a first position in a national tournament and is aiming for the world championships.
Competing against the best in the country can be intimidating, but Carmen Sales (15), a local marksman, proved that she has nerves of steel. She participated in the South African Handgun Level III International Practical Shooting (IPSC) tournament in Stilfontein last month, and beat the current SA champion.
The IPSC tests skills in accuracy, speed and the ability to use them with full-power loads. The young member of the White River Pistol Club achieved a first position in the woman’s production division with her CZ Shadow in 9x19mm. She has been competing since 2013, with this recent competition being her sixth handgun national.
Her performance earned her a gold medal and an IPSC President’s Medal. Carmen says it was a great experience and the spirit among competitors was amazing. “Everyone enjoys each other’s company and gives advice where needed.”
She says the recognition means a lot to her and that she wouldn’t have been able to do it without the Lord by her side.
Carmen became interested in the sport after visiting a shooting range with her dad and brother. She then started competing in practical shooting at club level in Tzaneen in 2011, and has since developed into a well-balanced firearm enthusiast.
She takes part in activities of the Bushveld Hunters Association, the Mpumalanga School Shooters Union and Mpumalanga Practical Shooting Association. She has also been awarded dedicated status by South African Practical Shooting Association and as such can qualify for firearm licences.
She practises as often as possible, but since she lives in Rob Ferreira High School’s hostel, it is difficult. “I don’t want the other residents to think I’m attacking them in the hall,” she jokes. Her dream is one day to participate in the world championships of shooting.
When Carmen is not practising, she loves being outdoors, fishing, playing netball or participating in other shooting activities.
Her advice to other girls who are interested in the sport, is to visit a shooting range. “Everyone has to start somewhere and to visit a shooting range can help. The people there are friendly and will make an effort to help you.”
Enquiries: White River Pistol Club at gideon.botha31@gmail.com, or for IPSC, visit www.ipsc.org or www.sapsa.co.za
