Inaugural 2022 IDPA patron's cup promises fireworks

Master Eric Wachira with the 800m Olympic gold medal holder David Rudisha at Kirigiti Shooting Range. [File, Standard

This weekend promises a fierce face-off as the National Gun Owners Association – NGAO-Kenya hosts the inaugural 2022 International Defensive Pistol Association- IDPA Patron’s Shoot Championships.

The event that has been touted as one of the biggest on Kenya’s 2022 IDPA shooting calendar will take place on Saturday, May 28, 2022, at NGAO’s premier shooting range in Kirigiti - Kiambu County.

It is open to all current IDPA members from all over the world and has attracted a record of 120 shooters.

Various units from Kenya Police Service including the DCI, ATPU, ASTU and GSU are set to take part in the event.

KDF, NIS and civilians who are licensed firearm holders will also participate in the contest.

Speaking to The Standard sports, NGAO-Kenya Chairman Martin Chengo said the patron’s shoot is a new entry into the NGAO fold.

“This is the first time we are holding the patrons shoot and registration has been very good. It is yet another opportunity for our sports shooters to showcase their prowess in shooting sports,” said Chengo.

According to the Match Director Anthony Wahome, all the top Kenyan pistol shooters have confirmed attendance and the event promises to be a show stopper.

“Among the top guns battling it out in the different categories will be the current IDPA Africa Champion Master Ibrahim Ndung’u, Master Eng Robert Nyamongo, Master Eric Wachira, Master Eng Sammy Onyango, Master Mohammed Omar, Pravir Vohra, Issa Issa, Kelvin Mbugua of Bamburi Rifle Club as well as the Junior Champion Jonathan Wahome among others,” said Wahome  

The two-day shoot which commences on Friday with Safety Officers and Chief Safety Officers comprises of 10 courses of fire and will be run as per the IDPA rules and safety protocols.

There will also be a fun shoot on the same day open to members of the public that will run the whole day.