When I originally decided to take a vacation to our southern neighbour, I was only planning to attend the Jamaica Invitational Pistol Tournament (JIPT) as a spectator. What a mistake that would have been!
It all started with a courtesy phone call to Al, the Regional Director for IPSC Jamaica, letting him know that I would be in his neck of the woods. Apparently my ability to say "no thanks" were at a loss for Al's persuasion and Jamaican hospitality because before I knew it I had agreed to shoot the pre-match and work the match as an Range Officer. #Sucker #TwistMyRubberArm
I wasn't planning to have my first overseas competition until June and my late entry to JIPT meant that I wouldn't be able to arrange to take my firearm of choice. What had I gotten myself into?
But at least I wasn't alone. Bright and early that Thursday morning our Regional Director, Ales (aka Bob the Builder), and I boarded the flight and an hour later were in sunny Kingston, Jamaica.
But at least I wasn't alone. Bright and early that Thursday morning our Regional Director, Ales (aka Bob the Builder), and I boarded the flight and an hour later were in sunny Kingston, Jamaica.
Upon arrival we were met by Al and made our way to the Jamaica Rifle Association (JRA) for a tour of the range. After seeing the multiple pistol ranges and complex stages with tunnels, bridges and ropes (oh my!) I was super excited and yet again found myself wondering what I had gotten myself into.
I won't sugarcoat it, this was a tough match - 10 stages, approximately 300 rounds in the extra hot Caribbean sun. It was more than I'd ever done - it was a marathon. Although I was lucky enough to find a very similar firearm to what I was used to, it just wasn't the same as shooting my Mae West. To add to that, my eyes were so tired that I couldn't wear my contacts which cost me a lot points. I was hot and frustrated. I wanted to quit and at some points even wanted to cry. Yet it was the best trip ever and here's why.
 |
But it was all good and I was in good hands. The JRA team kept me fed and busy. And there was plenty to learn and see from super shooters like Robert Engh, Frank Garcia, Eric Grauffel, Lesgar Murdock, Chris Stump, Chris Tilley and Andrew Yap just to name a few. Everyone I came across was so friendly that I forgot I was at a competition...until the guns came out. Unlike in some other situations that just meant we were really ready to have some fun.
 |
| Just hanging around hitting some steel |
I won't sugarcoat it, this was a tough match - 10 stages, approximately 300 rounds in the extra hot Caribbean sun. It was more than I'd ever done - it was a marathon. Although I was lucky enough to find a very similar firearm to what I was used to, it just wasn't the same as shooting my Mae West. To add to that, my eyes were so tired that I couldn't wear my contacts which cost me a lot points. I was hot and frustrated. I wanted to quit and at some points even wanted to cry. Yet it was the best trip ever and here's why.
1. It got me over the first time jitters of competing away from home. The bonus was that it was a friendly competition so although there was pressure it wasn't as intense as it can get at other international comps. Those who have competed can related to the feeling of relief that comes with just making it through the first stage without incident (accidental discharge, misfires, jams or worst of all being disqualified.) My first stage, "A Quick Black and White Affair" was actually my best stage and that set the tone for me going forward. I placed 17th. I may have very well done a happy dance.
 |
| Cheers to surviving day 1 |
2. I now know what I need to put in place for the next trip. I now have a new appreciation for the importance of eye drops and magazine loaders.
3. I got to learn a lot as a range officer. The stage I assisted with had a lot to offer in terms of understanding the science of shooting. Our ability to identify whether I shot actually hit the target first or was a follow through or ricochet after hitting a hard cover was of extreme importance because we then had to stand by our calls and explain it to the shooter. We also had to keep control of our course and make up for time that may have been lost on other stages. Our team at stage 6 ran such a tight ship our competitors all left happy and we made it look easy.
 |
| With Andrew, Marc and Damian at Stage 6 |
 |
| The super squad preparing for Stage 6 |
4. I got to meet some amazing people. I'm not just talking about the world class shooters which is an experience in itself. I mean the many guys and gals at the JRA who make this all happen. Having that many stages with moving parts The Als and Andrews and Pauls who make sure the courses are all set up and running smoothly. Rudy who makes sure the Red Stripes are extra cold for when you're done a hot day's shoot and serves your bun and cheese with the friendliest smile.
And I can't forget my new Trini friend, Hoppy, who taught me the value and art behind custom molded ear plugs.
And I can't forget my new Trini friend, Hoppy, who taught me the value and art behind custom molded ear plugs.
 |
| Me with Eric Grauffel :) |
 |
| Hoppy making molds |
 |
| Ales, Frank Garcia and me :) |
#5. This trip made me appreciate how much I love my range family. I was fortunate enough to have a handful of my CISSA family there to support me in person. Levi and Andy McB helped me load magazines because I'd forgotten my loader and my thumbs were on fire by half way through the match. They cheered me on and pushed me through those final stages. And those who couldn't be there supported me over instant messaging.
I was particularly proud when my Andy McB came through my stage. He scored the most double alphas I'd seen all day on that stage and claimed second in his class overall.
In closing, I say a big thank you to Al & Tanya Stewart, Andrew Gardener, the JRA team and all the 2015 JIPT participants for making my first away trip a great experience. See you all same time next year if not sooner!
