IT has been another successful trip north, with Harry Brown and Tom Clark returning from the Commonwealth Titles at the Echuca Clay Target Club last weekend.

The two locals collected wins across the three-day event, with Brown in particular earning the plaudits of many.

Brown topped the scores across and finished as A Grade and Junior Double Rise Champion, AA Grade and Junior double barrel Champion, Junior High Gun Champion and Junior Point Score Champion.

The 15-year-old said it was always fun to compete at these events and was glad to return with some sashes.

“I was very happy with how I shot

“It is not too bad, because it is spread out over a couple of days.

“They split it up, for the 50-target rounds, you shoot 25 then take a break and have a drink, but if you get into shoot-offs and stuff, it does get quite tiring after a while.”

Brown will now turn his focus towards school competitions with The Hamilton and Alexandra College student also eyeing off upcoming state competitions also.

“Right now with the school shooting starting, that is only a single barrel, and other than that there are the state titles later this year,” he said.

“There is no training during the week, but the weekends and after school College has sessions.

“Thanks to the Hamilton Gun Club for all the practice and Gary Hayden for coaching us in the SWAS (South West Academy of Sport).”

Clark also returned home with a win, topping the ranks in the Junior single barrel event.

The 16-year-old said he had no expectations going into the event and was happy with how he performed under pressure.

“I went alright, I was surprised I got something which is a nice reward for the hard work,” he said.

“I was just trying to aim for consistency across the three days and just wanting to try my best and see what happens.”

The Monivae College student said he always remains positive when shooting, despite the conditions adding an extra element to combat.

“They were pretty shocking, freezing cold and there was frost everywhere, but we got through it,” he said.

“You just have to concentrate a bit harder and stick with the plan.”