Grand Prix de France - Compak Sporting - France (May 2018)

The T.P. ARGILE VITTEL (Ball-trap de Vittel) shooting complex is a major competitive and recreational center located in They-sous-Montfort, in the Grand Est region of Eastern France, near the famous spa town of Vittel. The facility operates under a model that balances professional sports with broad accessibility, welcoming everyone from absolute novices-starting at age 14-to the most seasoned competitors. Due to the stand's focus purely on shooting, it strategically leverages the highly developed hotel and restaurant infrastructure of nearby Vittel, making it a logistically attractive destination for multi-day competitive events.

The club's elite status is firmly established by its competition calendar. T.P. ARGILE VITTEL is a regular host for national selections (Sélection Nationale Compak Sporting) and regional championships. Crucially, the facility has the infrastructure and accreditation required to host the Grand Prix de France FITASC de Compak Sporting (a World Cup stage), confirming its adherence to the highest international standards set by the Fédération Internationale de Tir aux Armes Sportives de Chasse (FITASC).

The defining feature of the Vittel stand is its expansive, open terrain. Covering approximately 7 hectares (70,000 m²) 7, the complex maintains only four shooting posts. This intentional design choice maximizes the trajectory range and complexity of targets over the open natural ground. Situated at an elevated position (Chemin du Haut de Vittel), the targets are highly susceptible to natural factors, such as wind and varying light conditions. This ensures that training conditions are realistic and demanding, perfectly suited for competitors preparing for natural-terrain courses (Parcours de Chasse) or Compak Sporting events where maximum adaptability is required.

The shooting complex is highly versatile, specializing in both competitive shotgun disciplines and hunting practice. The facility is fully "Découvert" (open-air) and its shooting lines are laid out on natural grass. While official branding of the throwing machines is not publicly detailed, the hosting of major FITASC events implies the use of sophisticated, reliable automatic machines (likely from industry leaders like Laporte) capable of handling the high volume and complex multipull sequences required for 200-target competitions.

Key Disciplines Available:

• Compak Sporting (CS)

• Fosse Universelle (Universal Trench)

• DTL (Down-the-Line)

• Sanglier Courant (Running Boar) – A key feature for hunters

Training and instruction are available for both individuals and groups. For those new to the sport, the club offers an inclusive and mandatory "Initiation Package" starting from age 14, requiring only a valid ID. Experienced shooters benefit from the presence of technical experts (as indicated by the connection to armurerie.barras), who can provide specialized advice on equipment and technique necessary for competitive performance.

Core Services and Pricing :
Initiation Package: €35 - 25 Targets, 25 Cartridges, Gun Rental, Daily Insurance, Instructor
Daily Insurance: Mandatory - Required for all non-FFBT members (price not specified)
Discount: 10% - Applies to the Initiation Package with the “Pass Vosges” card

The stand’s operating schedule is highly seasonal, which is a critical point for visitors to note due to its climate in the Vosges region. Access during the week generally requires coordination with the club management, and hours are significantly reduced in the winter.3

Seasonal Operating Hours:
Summer (March–September)
Monday-Saturday - 14:15 - 19:00
Sunday - 10:00 - 12:00 & 14:15 - 19:00

Winter (October-March)
Monday–Saturday - 14:15-16:00
Sunday - Closed (by phone appointment)

Target Audience and Advantages:

1. Elite Compak/Fosse Shooters: Proven international-grade infrastructure for serious competition.

2. Hunters: Unique access to the Sanglier Courant (Running Boar) target for practical practice.

3. Sports Tourists: Seeking high-quality shooting experience with easy access to the full amenities (lodging, dining) of the Vittel resort.

4. Beginners: Attractive and affordable initiation package with safety instruction and all equipment provided.