Top Tips from Des

Deliberations from Des to help you suceed

A few observations and suggestions jotted down at random from memory.

At the risk of appearing to “teach my granny to suck eggs”, hopefully they may help.

• Bring a groundsheet, not necessarily waterproof, as rain is unlikely, but for protection from biting ants.
• Bring mosquito repellent, in 2004 they were a problem, but not in 2002.
• Buy an icebox and half-fill it with ice each day (the hotels have free ice machines), keep bottled water cool in the car for when shooters come off the line. Rotate new bottles each time one is taken from the icebox.
• Big 24x water bottle packs are available from Wal-Mart – not far from the range.
• Beware of the light material the wind flags are made from, it’s very thin nylon. The flags therefore tend to exaggerate the wind strength.
• A wide-brimmed hat and sun cream will be needed for protection.
• Don’t wear trainers, due to the heat; they make your feet sweat and your car & hotel room ‘pong’. Sandals were popular (and boots!).
• Hire cars may have brake release buttons on the floor, or foot well.
• Car share with those you’re squadded with, or else face long walks and exposure to sun, if the car is needed at the opposite end of the range.
• 4x4s are not needed; the range is flat and accessible. AC is essential though. Leaded petrol is commonly used.
• Don’t park facing your car into oncoming traffic, it’s illegal.
• Sand for filling rear bags can be found at DIY stores, so bring a funnel.
• Always keep your ammo well shaded, underneath a range bag etc.
• Targets are pulled and raised very quickly by experienced markers, watch them closely, or you’ll think they have not gone down.
• A BR range is available for testing & zeroing at Stittsville, it’s about 9-10 miles from Ottawa, it’s a commercially run facility with a gunshop.
• Clear your loading gear and components away after use, for security, don’t leave it all in view of the hotel chambermaids.
• Take great care when approaching junctions with minor roads, always approach by slowing down and give way to traffic joining the main road!! – Crazy but true.
• Always sign your scorecard before handing in, or it won’t be counted.
• Make full use of the canteen at Ottawa, it offered totally unbeatable good value, e.g. $15 for breakfast, lunch & dinner (2002 price).
• Northern Ontario has large French-speaking areas, some rural areas have monoglot French speakers, beware if travelling afar. Southern Ontario, around Ottawa is English-speaking.
• Range orders are given in French and English, see card supplied.
• As a team, consider bringing some memento to present to the F-class team captains or face embarrassment if they present to the Scots and you cannot reciprocate.

That’s about all I can remember for now!