U.S. Palma Team Homeward Bound from Australia

Dave Kloft, a member of the U.S. Goodwill Team and a shooter for the U.S. Army Reserve, provided this report at the conclusion on the World Long Range Rifle Championships held at the Belmont Range outside Brisbane, Australia. The U.S. Palma Team finished third, behind Great Britain (1st Place), and South Africa (2nd Place).

There was very, very stiff competition and the conditions on the range tested our coaches and shooters thoroughly. After two long days of shooting, we found ourselves bested by Great Britain and South Africa. While we did not win gold, this was still a tremendous accomplishment for our team, and it was an honor to be among the best rifle shooters in our country and from around the world.

We were overwhelmed by the hospitality demonstrated by all the great folks in Australia during the past three weeks. It was definitely a wonderful experience. With any luck, this won’t be my last time visiting this amazing country.

The 2015 World Championships will be hosted by the USA. The planned location is currently Camp Perry, Ohio following the US National Championships in August. The next U.S. Team Training event is the South African National Championships in October of 2012.