The 2009 Rio Salado Area 2 match this year was probably one of the best matches I have seen this club put on.  This is always a fantastic match with stages that rival the best of the matches.  If you haven't had the opportunity to shoot his match, then you should make the opportunity.  Or, maybe not….it only makes it harder for the rest of us to get in at 370+ shooters!

 

This was my first Area Championship Lady’s Win, so this win was a very special win for me.  I was able to shoot with a fantastic group of people…Squad 22 Rocks!…Debi, Steve, Frank, Pete, Jeffrey, Ross, Matt, Phil, Alan, Spence, Jerry, Dave, and two more that my memory is failing me, so I apologize.  

 

The stages this year were very physical, and among them a few mentally challenging areas.  With the exception of one stage, the stages required lots of movement, a few stages full out sprinting, a handful that forced the shooter to move laterally, and many, many awkward shooting positions.   Target placement at times was deceivingly easy, some up close and personal, while others were pushed out there with hard cover and no-shoots.  Then we follow up with the 20+yard stop plates, the handful of pesky poppers tucked behind barrels, and the notoriously tough Rio swingers out in full force, don’t blink!  All in all, it was a job well done by the Rio Salado Sportsman’s Club.   

 

My favorite stages???  Stage 2 and Stage 8!

 

I would like to thank

 

the RO's for their efforts at running the stages as smooth as they ran.  Everyone one of them worked their stage with a wonderful attitude and the professionalism only this match can draw. They are the best of the best.

 

Polle and her hard working staff who ran the stats.  There's nothing that can be said except superb job and they deserve a huge applaud!

 

Scott Carnahan and Safariland for resolving a long time gear problem with their fantastic loop-over under belt.  My gear now stays tucked in to my body, even at a sprint. I LOVE IT!

 

Angus Hobdell for the training and insight that I finally listened to and applied at the same time!

 

Kandi, Tasha, Debbie and Kippi for your support, and

 

Last, but definitely not least, I would like to thank my husband, Russell, for giving me new inspiration for the sport and all of the encouraging words and advice that he gives me.  He puts himself second at these matches and always makes sure I have what I need.  He is my best friend, my partner in life, and a fantastic human being.