GB Handgun Team battle 45C heat in the Czech Republic
This last week the GB Handgun Team have been competing in the WA1500 European Championships in the Czech Republic. The individual and Club Team matches were throughout the week and the International finale today (Sunday). On one day the temperature was recorded at 45°C, making it incredibly difficult for both shooters and equipment to perform at their best. Rehydration, shades and sunscreen were all de rigueur.
Today (Sunday 9 August 2026) was the final day with the International Team Matches. There were 11 countries participating and the standard of shooting was extremely high. Fortunately, the temperature was in the thirties and not the forties, but it was bad enough! The Revolver and Pistol competitions were dominated by Germany, but the Optical competitions were both won by Sweden. Great Britain performed well, despite not being able to practice in our home country. They came 9th and 8th in Revolver and Revolver Optical respectively and 10th in both the pistol competitions, beating other countries in all 4 disciplines.
The competing shooters and results are below. There will be a full report in the NRA Winter Journal.
Left to right: David Free (Adjutant), Matt Peppitt, Chris Pannell, Dave Harris (Captain), Steve Lamb, Ryan Wiggins.
Medals Table from the Championships
