For 46 years the Silver City Trap Club has celebrated that special bond many of us share with our fathers.
So as the club prepares for the 47th annual Father’s Day Shoot this weekend, the club is reminding the public that the event isn’t just about fathers.
“We have a lot of wives and daughters attend the event. It’s a day for everybody,” explained long-time member John Torbic.
The event actually runs Saturday and Sunday. And while competition is part of the weekend, the public is welcome to come and watch and learn about the club.
“It’s going to be a really nice get together, bring the whole family” said Torbic. “Come out and try something new, it’s a lot of fun.”
This year enthusiasts are coming from the Okanagan as well as the Kootenays as even a few from south of the border. For those coming from out of town, the club will provide free parking and electricity for RVs in their large paved parking lot.
“We have lots of room for those travelling long distances,” said Torbic.
As for the general public interested in trying out a sport that has been around Greater Trail for over half a century, Torbic said there’s always that opportunity.
Qualified members will be on site to teach how to stand, aim and fire safely.
“We will teach those who haven’t shot before to make sure their doing everything safely” he added.
Guns will have to be supplied by the participants, but ammunition can be purchased at the club. Safety glasses and ear protection are also required for obvious reasons.
There is no age limit for the Father’s Day shoot. The club has 40 to 50 members ranging from 10 to 89 years of age.
A wide array of events will be held all day on Saturday. Friendly competitions will take place Saturday morning.
Events like Trap and Skeet shooting will cater to the more experienced shooters.
Saturday afternoon will be a time for everyone to have fun. Games will take place including an elimination game, where many shooters stand in a long line and whoever hits all his targets wins. Many other activities for both beginners and amateurs will take place throughout the afternoon.
There will be raffle prizes supplied by local merchants, and an all day BBQ for those who work up an appetite featuring a classic pig roast at 5 p.m.
Sunday will be another day filled with friendly competition. Everyone will have a chance to bet on shooters they think will have the best accuracy, with prizes given out to the winners.
The weekend promises to be a fun and memorable event for long-time members and newcomers.
“Come on down in the morning and have fun. Enjoy the competitions and the pig roast,” said Torbic.
The club will be opened for the summertime on Thursday evenings and some weekends. The club is located half way between Trail and Castlegar.
For more information on the Father’s Day shoot or any other questions you can call club president Brian Kittson at 250-365-6200, or visit the clubs website www.silvercityclays.com.