What a whirlwind day. What a dusty whirlwind site it was at the Green Valley Rifle and Pistol Club in Hallsville, Mo. Despite dry, hot winds, temperatures in the 90s and a schedule that dragged late at times, shooters from around the globe patiently waited their turns to shoot fast and accurately at moving targets, falling plates and from behind barricades. For them, it’s an annual reunion and an opportunity to show their prowess with practical pistol moves.
The 2012 MidwayUSA & NRA Bianchi Cup, named for holster designer John Bianchi, offers the largest purse of any tournament in action pistol shooting. Held annually since 1979, it is considered one of the most difficult championships to shoot and is one part of the triple crown of action shooting sports – with the International Practical Shooting Confederation and Steel Challenge completing the trifecta of championships.
This year, my schedule only permitted me to whisk in and out, so I don’t have nearly the photos of the fabulous women shooters that I usually get from this event. They simply weren’t all on the schedule and there. But, I’m not complaining. And you’ll see why below.
Who doesn't love this kid? Here's teen competitive shooter Molly Smith with me before she competed. She wanted us to turn our hats and well, act a little goofy! Photo by Susie Smith
Jessie Duff shoots for Taurus now. It doesn't matter what gun she shoots, she just shoots well! Photo by Barbara Baird
And then there's the Captain of Team Smith & Wesson, Julie Golob, looking so commanding at the barricade shoot. Photo by Barbara Baird
Over in the clubhouse, I met Nikki and John Bianchi. Photo by Beth Cowgill
Packing in Pink proprietor Kim Page came all the way from Toronto (yes, Canada!) to introduce Bianchi attendees to her fabulous line of women's apparel. Here she is with Beth Cowgill, of MidwayUSA. Photo by Barbara Baird
Just a little idea of what Bianchi Cup is like …
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Publisher/Editor Barbara Baird is a freelance writer in hunting, shooting and outdoor markets. Her bylines are found at several top hunting and shooting publications. She also is a travel writer, and you can follow her at https://www.ozarkian.com. View all posts by Barbara Baird
