Jamaica’s practical pistol shooters demonstrated exceptional precision, versatility and resilience at the recently concluded Smoking Barrels Xtreme Regional Shooting Competition in Barbados. The team secured top honours in every category, solidifying their reputation as one of the Caribbean’s premier competitive shooting teams.

The Jamaicans stood out in this highly competitive Level 3 event, challenging elite marksmen and women from countries such as the US, Suriname, Columbia, Grenada, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and St Lucia.

As a team, Jamaica secured first, second and third place finishes in the Production Optics, Production and Open Divisions, respectively.

The individual events saw Darin Richards leading the charge — taking first place in the Standard Division and walking away with the esteemed International Practical Shooting Confederation President’s Gold Medal. His outstanding performance set the tone for the entire team.

Adrian Randle and Rohan Wallace finished second in their respective divisions, whilst Alrice Palmer finished third in the highly competitive Open Division, further demonstrating Jamaica’s depth of talent. Lennie Moulton also placed second in the Open Division’s Senior Category.

The women were also a formidable force, with Yeonie Campbell and Florence Golding achieving a first- and second-place finish, respectively, in the Production Division lady category. The Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Corporal Shayon Francis captured the High Lady Award as the highest-placed female shooter overall in the match, marking a significant achievement for the team and the country. Their performances highlighted the strength and competitiveness of Jamaica’s female shooters.

“We are incredibly proud of the team’s performance at the Smoking Barrels Xtreme Regional Shooting Competition,” said Yeonie Campbell, the Jamaica Rifle Association’s (JRA) pistol captain.

“This success is a testament to the dedication, discipline, and hard work of our shooters, and we are thrilled to bring home these well-deserved accolades.”

Jamaica’s stellar performance at this prestigious event reaffirms the nation’s status in the shooting sports arena. The team’s achievements not only reflect their individual talents but also the strong support and training environment that has been cultivated within country’s shooting community.

“The JRA is dedicated to the promotion and development of shooting sports in Jamaica, providing opportunities for shooters of all levels to hone their skills and compete at the highest levels both regionally and internationally,” said Rohan Wilson, president of the JRA.

As the team returns home, they carry with them not just trophies and medals, but also the pride of a nation that continues to excel on the international stage.