Shooting Industry October 2013

Shooting Industry October 2013RENDEZVOUS CELEBRATES INDUSTRY, WESTERN STYLE f records are meant to be broken, then the 2013 Shooting Industry Masters set about doing just that. A record number of sponsors, side matches and auctions contributed to a record amount of money raised for the shooting sports. In addition, 313 competitors and 74 industry “pardners” enjoyed a record amount of fun — western style. “When I looked out over all the anxious faces that first morning of the Masters, it was comforting to see so many friends who have supported this event for years. What struck me was how many new smiling faces were in the crowd. It reaffirmed the importance of the Masters and how symbolic it is we do everything we can to bring new faces into the industry. First Shots helps us infuse and grow our ranks,” said Randy Molde, Masters chairman. Owned and operated by FMG Publications, the Masters was held July 19-20 at the Cody Shooting Complex in Cody, Wyo. A record 53 sponsors helped to make this 11th annual industry-only event a smashing success. “The Shooting Industry Masters helps us stop and appreciate each other’s friendship while enjoying shooting activities that make this industry so much fun,” Molde said. Featuring three stages — handgun, rifle and shotgun — the Shooting Industry Masters raises money for the NSSF’s First Shots program and provides a “homecoming” of sorts for the industry to come together and enjoy some time on the range. “This is the one time a year when we can come together as friends, as an industry, and shoot. We can leave the business at the shop and get some fresh air. For all these guys normally in suits and ties it’s fun, it’s unique. We really appreciate FMG putting this together because no one else does it. Don’t stop!” said Stephanie Pastusek, XS Sights marketing director. The city of Cody gave Masters attendees one of the warmest welcomes they’ve experienced. The night before the match, Masters attendees were treated to an evening at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, hosted by Barron Collier II, chairman, and the center’s board of trustees. As part of the evening festivities, curators opened major parts of the museum, which has an impressive array of historical firearms. (Top) Alongside log cabins and wagon wheels, Mark Lang, Ruger VP, reflects the Old West at Cody’s Old Trail Town. (Center) Celia Crane, LaserMax public relations manager, lines up the next shot with a sixgun on the “Cowboy Trio” portion of the handgun stage. (Bottom) Team Brownells’ Paul Levy prepares to dust a target on the “Cowboy Clays” shotgun stage. 40 OCTOBER 2013 By Jade Moldé I Jade Moldé Jade Moldé Tom Hollander More Than A Shooting Match Subscribe to SI DIGITAL www.shootingindustry.comPage 39Page 41