Clean sweep for Army at clay target titles

Discipline, consistency and focus delivered outstanding results for Army at the 2026 ADF Clay Target Championships, making a clean sweep of all three discipline shields and the overall high gun title.

More than 50 competitors from Navy, Army and Air Force competed over eight days at the Australian National Clay Target Ground, Wagga Wagga, in down the line, skeet and sporting clays.

Army's success was led by MAJ T, who claimed the Army high gun and overall high gun in a week of consistent performances across all three disciplines.

“You have to take the carnival one event at a time with a focus on consistency,” MAJ T said.

“There is a strong competitive spirit throughout the carnival and that keeps the pressure on all week.

“I’m pleased with the result, but it was awesome to see each competitor improving their scores and continuing to build their foundational shooting skills.”

This year marked the first trial participation of Defence veterans within the ADF Clay Target Association (ADFCTA). It follows recent Defence Sport policy changes aimed at providing veterans with opportunities to remain connected to the Defence community and share experiences and camaraderie through sport.

ADFCTA president CMDR Jason Grivas said the trial was a great success.

“The opportunity for Defence veterans to participate in the championships was a positive step for both the association and the wider Defence community,” CMDR Grivas said.

“The trial was conducted seamlessly, and the feedback from both veterans and serving members was overwhelmingly positive. It demonstrated that sport remains a valuable means of maintaining connections, friendships and a sense of belonging long after uniformed service has ended.”

FLTLT Chris Whyte again finished as the Air Force high gun, while CMDR Dennis Walsh retained Navy high gun honours.

Competitors were also vying for selection in ADF representative teams that will compete at forthcoming Australian national championships.