14th May 2005 - Arafura Games 2005
The Arafura Games and Northern Territory State Titles held in Darwin from 14th to 16th May, 2005were a truly spectacular event. Errol, Kerri, Alain and I braved the "red eye" flight to Darwin arriving at 1.30 a.m. on Friday morning extremely sleep deprived.
Alain and I had the luxury of a rest day on Friday before the match but Errol and Kerri had to get straight into it holding a shooting school on Friday.
The match started in earnest on Saturday morning with five challenging stages in Darwin's 32 degree heat and one additional stage so as to ensure that Monday would run smoothly. On Saturday evening we all travelled to the Marrara Oval for the official opening of the Games. This was a huge event with a march past of the athletes from 30 countries competing in the various sports at the games and a fantastic entertainment program.
On Sunday we completed another 6 stages (mainly shorter speed shoots) and retreated to Berry Springs after the shoot for a well earned swim and relax. On Monday we only had three stages to complete but they included two large field courses and one awkwardly low shooting port. Once again we retreated after the shooting to Berry Springs for a cooling swim whilst we waited for the results to be finalised.
In the finish JPP SV Shooters were very successful. Errol finished 2nd Overall despite shooting Minor over the Chronograph. Similarly Kerri finished 3rd Lady as a result of Errol's "Minor" loading complication. Alain finished 3rd A Grade in Standard division and I finished Top Lady and 1st A Grade in Open Division. Kerri and I also Teamed up to win the Open Ladies Team Title. Errol, Dutchy and Clarkie ranked 2nd in the Open Men's Team event.
All in all it was a well enjoyed weekend. We would also like to thank Gareth and Gina Graham for providing us with our accommodation for the weekend. It was wonderful to have our own house and air conditioning.