Grand Prix of South Africa - Compak Sporting - South Africa (October 2018)

Sterkfontein Shooting Academy (SSA) is a premier clay pigeon shooting destination located in the Highveld bush on the edge of a quarry near Irene, Pretoria. Its most defining feature is its unique topography—the quarry's edge provides vertical depth for target presentations that are physically impossible on standard flat ranges, creating a "real-world" feel for both sporting and hunting simulations.

The facility is professionally equipped to handle all major clay disciplines, supported by a technical infrastructure of over 32 high-end automatic trap machines. This allows for an infinite variety of flight paths, including specialized targets like "Teals" (vertical climbs) and "Rabbits" (ground-rolling targets), alongside traditional Skeet and Trap variations.

Key On-Stand Infrastructure:

• Disciplines: Compak, Sporting, Trap, and Skeet.

• Equipment: 32+ Automatic Trap machines (Promatic) and Eurotarget clays.

• Social Facilities: Large clubhouse (Lapa) seating up to 100 people, including a kitchen and administrative office.

• Inclusivity: The entire facility is wheelchair accessible.

Training at SSA is defined by its elite mentorship. Coaching is available for members with a strict focus on gun safety and advanced shooting techniques. The academy is led by Chairman Costa Halkias, a world-renowned shooter who notably secured a silver medal at the 1990 FITASC Sporting World Cup Final. This championship-level leadership ensures that range setups meet international standards.

The academy is a central hub for South African competitive shooting, frequently hosting national selection events such as the Compak SA Trials and the Cos Cavaleros Trial. Historically, it has also hosted prestigious international events like the Pan African Sporting Championships. Beyond sports, it is a leading venue for large-scale corporate team-building, requiring a minimum of 20 participants for group events.

Who it suits:

• Beginners: Structured safety-first instruction from experts.

• Pro Athletes: Challenging terrains and international-standard trials.

• Families: A friendly, picturesque environment suitable for weekend recreation.

• Corporate Teams: Dedicated hospitality infrastructure for large groups.

Core Advantages:

• Unique Terrain: Quarry-edge verticality offers unmatched flight variety.

• Technical Reliability: High-volume automatic traps ensure seamless sessions.

• Expert Pedigree: Managed by a FITASC World Cup medalist.

• Logistics: Conveniently located between Midrand and Pretoria.