The Sunday News
Ngqwele Dube, Sports Correspondent
A RECORD crowd of more than 250 shooters took part in the first edition of the 2018 HQ 1 Infantry Brigade Commander ZNA Executive Interactive Initiative fun shoot that was held at Wollandale Range in Bulawayo last Saturday.
The shoot saw participants partake in events that include pistols, AK-47 Individual, PKM Team Shoot and the Falling Plates and overwhelming numbers took organisers by surprise leading to some shooters having to forgo some of the events to ensure the proceedings are concluded before sunset.
HQ 1 Infantry Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Augustine Chipwere, who is patron of the Matabeleland South initiative and was guest of honour at the shoot, said they were impressed with the turnout. In previous editions the shoots have attracted between 100 and 150 participants.
“We are happy with the turnout, it is quite overwhelming. I believe it is an indicator that members of the corporate now understand the essence of the Commander Interactive fun shoot. The corporate support that we got for this event is also enthralling and in particular I would like to mention PPC, which is supporting us for the first time and has managed to elevate the size of the support we usually manage to get from the corporate world,” he said.
Gen Brig Chipwere said they expect bigger crowds in the coming editions given the country was operating in an environment where His Excellency, the President Emmerson Mnangagwa, is saying that Zimbabwe is open for business. He said they envisage more companies opening leading to increased interaction with the corporate world.
Proceeds raised during the funds are channelled towards various charities both run by the army and members of the public.
Other entities such as Baker’s Inn, Delta Beverages and Willsgrove Enterprises also chipped in to ensure the successful hosting of the fun shoot. HQ 1 Infantry Brigade Shooting Club chairman, Retired Colonel George Nare encouraged members of the public interested in shooting to join their club which holds fortnightly shooting sessions.
“Those interested can also join our shooting club that holds regular fortnightly shooting sessions and our fees are pegged at $30 per annum.
“Some may fear thinking it is a closed sport for soldiers or the elite but we are open to anyone interested in shooting. They can come and join us,” he said.
