Trap, Skeet and Sporting Clay Shooters Update
It is essential at this time to provide you a brief update on the status of the Trap Field and Trap program at VFGPA, as they are currently undergoing a process of renewal and adjustment, as we implement both new machinery as well as a revamped trap training program.
Mike King, our Board Director who had been responsible for Trap, has chosen this time of reduced winter activity to retire from the position. The Executive and Board of VFGPA thank Mike for the implementation of the current upgrades, as well as the many substantive contributions that he has made to the club over the years; especially the countless hours of volunteering; which has included coaching, mentoring, and delivering events.
We would also like to thank Daryl Gardner, who has been very involved with the recent upgrades, and has volunteered to step in as the interim Trap Director, pending the March 2022 Annual General Meeting.
Background on Latest Trap Upgrades
The severe weather has not only hampered the installation process but has also resulted in several scheduled practices being canceled at the last minute, which has been a dissatisfier for some. Regrettably, these decisions are often “game day calls” given the constantly evolving conditions, as we default to trying to run the practices, however we often are forced to make a final evaluation based on the conditions on the ground late in the morning, and this has resulted in short notice cancellations. We understand the communication of these cancellations has not been effective, and we apologize for any confusion that has caused, and we will work to ensure decisions are made in a timelier manner in the future and communicated directly to members as soon as we have an update, using social media, the website and email.
Finally, we are in the process of updating the Trap Access course given the addition of the new machines and the intricacies of their safe and effective use.
We are hoping that the updated Course will be ready within a month, in time for the spring shooting season. As an overview, the course will take similar time to complete, but will require demonstrable skills. Once complete, a new card being issued that will allow access to the trap machines outside of formal practice times. For those with the current Trap Access qualification, you will still retain access to the legacy machines at trap 1, 2 and 5.
We are grateful for your patience and understanding as we have worked through this significant upgrade to the trap facilities at VFGPA, we have invested a significant amount of time and resources in updating this heavily utilized facility, and we will soon have the new program in place and the facility fully reopened for your enjoyment.
