ABOUT THE LITHGOW CHALLENGE

The Challenge is designed as an entry-level competition only. 
It is not meant to replace or compete with any existing SSAA discipline. 
It is open to Regional Cadet Units and to School Cadet Units. 

Purpose
The purpose of establishing this competition is to provide approved facilities to those who wish to participate in small-bore rifle shooting under the guidance and expert tuition of accredited persons.
The purpose is not military training and is specifically not marksmanship for defence purposes.
The competition hopes to provide a recreational pastime for those interested in the shooting sports and endeavours to promote a lifetime association by those participating in this sport.
The competition endeavours at all times to promote an image that overcomes any criticism by those who oppose firearm ownership.

Equipment
Rifle:  We have adopted the Slazenger Model 1A or 1B single shot rifle as the rifle to be used for this competition, because of its availability and its connection with Australian history, having been manufactured by the Lithgow Small Arms Factory.  The firearm is “light” and can easily be handled by children of small stature. Whilst other single shot rifles are available (Cooey 39, Anschutz 1386, BSA) we feel that by adopting an Australian made firearm we indicate a link to Australian history.  We recognize that the rifle may be deemed “agricultural” in relation to those firearms that are available today, but when trying to promote this activity as an Australian “tradition” the Slazenger will be suited to that image. The “cadets” would appreciate the link to the Australian Small Arms manufacturing industry. 

Whilst other single shot rifles may be used in practice, only the Slazenger 1A or 1B will be accepted for competition use.

Sights: We feel the concept of this program should reflect a previous time when the SMLE training rifle in .22LR calibre was used by school cadets to introduce them to the .303-calibre version.  We therefore would like to see open factory iron sights only.  If competitors wish to use scopes and other styles of competition rifle then there are disciplines that can accommodate that desire, e.g. SSAA Field Rifle, Benchrest, Silhouette etc. Whilst telescopic sights may result in greater accuracy they also create logistical problems in standardizing equipment. This will be a “competition”, and the winner should not be the group who are able to purchase expensive new scopes whilst other less financial groups can only afford second hand scopes.

Target Frames

The frames described in the information pack are only a suggestion for those clubs that don’t already have suitable backing support for targets.

The Competition.

It is proposed that there will be a minimum of three postal shoots each year, scored as per the rules and with the top 3 units and top 3 individual shooters being recognised. They will receive an appropriate award. 
One of the main aims is to be able to hold an annual shoot off. In time it is hoped that some coaching will be provided in each state and that in due course such a shoot off will be held to decide on the top 3 shooters and the top three units in this competition Australia wide. It is anticipated that a trophy will be given to both the top team and top individual shooter to hold until the next year's shoot off.  Details of such a shoot off will be notified in due course.

Good luck and happy shooting,

Dave Bennett
Lithgow Challenge Coordinator.

NOTE: This is a totally new competition, and as such there may be some changes to these rules and guidelines. We will greatly appreciate any comments or feedback you may like to pass on.

If you would like a copy of the guidelines for this shoot please right click on the link and select "save target as".

Cadet Challenge information pack. In .PDF format (94kb)
 

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