Grand Prix of New-Zealand - Sporting - New Zealand (February 2018)

South Island Sporting Clay Shooters Inc. (SISCSI) is a premier sporting clay institution based at the Canterbury Clay Target Club (CCTC) in Christchurch, New Zealand. Dedicated to advancing the sport across the South Island, the club caters to everyone from complete novices seeking a safe introduction to elite athletes preparing for national and international championships. A standout feature of this location is its unique combination of elevated shooting towers and state-of-the-art automated target release systems, which expertly simulate the unpredictable, multi-dimensional flight paths found in actual hunting scenarios.

The venue is a major hub for competitive shooting, hosting a wide array of events ranging from monthly club practices to high-stakes national tournaments. Competitors often face challenging conditions, as the combination of natural Canterbury winds and artificially elevated towers creates complex optical illusions and erratic target aerodynamics that test even the most seasoned shooters. Key competitions include:

• Sporting Clays: Club championships and the Target Products New Zealand Open.

• Compak / 5 Stand: Major endurance events like the NZ Premier 200 Compak and Trans-Tasman matches.

• Classic Disciplines: DTL (Down The Line), Skeet, and Universal Trench.

SISCSI boasts a highly advanced, multi-disciplinary infrastructure designed for both peak performance and visitor comfort. The layout includes multiple fully equipped fields capable of hosting simultaneous pairs and diverse shooting angles. Standout facility features include:

• Equipment: Elite Promatic and Laporte TwinLap traps, fully integrated with BRB Wireless acoustic release systems for instantaneous, fair target launches.

• Hospitality: A modern clubhouse featuring the licensed Whitfords Restaurant & Kellaway Bar, perfect for post-tournament banquets.

• Amenities: Extensive parking, EFTPOS facilities, and on-site camping options for multi-day events.

The club places a strong emphasis on skills development and psychological preparation. Training sessions range from beginner instruction to advanced biomechanical and mental coaching, such as using 'paradoxical intention' to overcome target anxiety. Notably, the club is historically shaped by legendary figures like NZCTA Hall of Fame inductee Mark Vessey, whose international experience and high-scoring records have set a benchmark for sporting clay excellence in New Zealand.

This facility is designed to be highly inclusive and beneficial for various demographic groups, breaking the stereotype of an elite-only sport. Its key target audiences and benefits include:

• Beginners: A safe environment with supervised practice days, gun hire, and affordable starter packages.

• Athletes: World-class target variations and high-end technological fairness for serious competition preparation.

• Families & Youth: Heavily discounted memberships and entry fees to encourage junior participation.

• Corporate Teams: Excellent team-building packages offering comprehensive safety briefings, friendly competition, and catered hospitality.

Services & Pricing

• Practice Rounds: $15.00 per round of 25 targets.

• Ammunition: ~$12.00 to $16.00 per box of 25 shells.

• Annual Memberships: Full ($90), Family ($60), Junior ($35).

• Beginner Tasters: $2 for 7 targets (coin-operated traps).

Operating Hours

• Regular Practice & Competitions: Tuesday – Sunday, generally 09:00 – 18:00 (Hours vary based on the event schedule).

• Club Practice Days: 1st Saturday of the month (Sporting Clays, 12:00 – 15:00) and 1st Sunday of the month (Beginners/General, 10:00 – 13:00).

• Monday: Closed.