While most shooters are waiting for the weather to get better winter seems to be firmly holding a tight grip on the country. However this has not stopped the determined Norfolk Junior shooters from persuading their parents or carers to brave the cold and, in some places, snow, them to continue to compete. February saw Elise Dixon travel to Beverley Clay Target Centre to compete in the Universal Trench Winter Series, it was a cold but bright day and there were plenty of shooters from all over competing. Elise had a tricky start putting in a 16 however by round 3 she was neck and neck with Ryan Askem and the 4th round would be the decider for top of D Class. Elise came through with a 19 finishing on 80/100 and taking the D class win, the first of many we are sure. February didn’t end there, Elise was back up to Beverley Clay Target Centre for another Olympic Trap competition, this was the start of the practice competitions in preparation for the Portugal Grand Prix in March and Elise put in her PB of 75, giving her 2nd in Ladies. Following the success at Beverley, Elise Dixon and William Gilbert headed south to Nuthampstead for the grounds first Olympic Trap of the season. It was a busy shoot with 51 shooters taking part. It was an exciting competition with Elise squadded with Peter Wilson competing, if that doesn’t make her nervous, nothing will! William had a great start to the season putting in a respectable 74. Next was the East Midlands ABT Championships at Nottingham Clay Target Centre with 67 shooters taking part this was set to be an exciting competition, weather was holding and Norfolk came away with some victories, Russell Houghton toughed it out in a shoot-off after tying with John Winn from Lincolnshire, but Russell emerged victorious with a straight 25 securing him the silver. Laura Shinn battled hard, but unfortunately could not stay for the shoot-off meaning she forfeited her Bronze medal to Janet Stennett from Lincolnshire. William Gilbert put in a gallant effort achieving a 93/100, that saw him win the Juniors, and placed 4th overall in the competition out of a total 67 shooters, and winning D Class. Well done William, high gun is within reach and congratulations to Andy bowers for winning his class.