Port St. Mary set a new season-high score in the third round of the Isle of Man Rifle Association’s Winter League, beating southern rivals Castletown 490–477. Ben Kelly, Paul Clague and Donna Gardner chalked up a trio of 99s for the home side.

For the visitors, Nigel Christian posted 98 but was disappointed to have dropped his first and last shots, while the improving Charles Carter recorded his Winter League best with 95.

At the Sinclair Range, Laxey claimed a 480–452 victory over hosts Sandsiders. Jean Quaye topped Sandsiders’ score sheet with 99, a mark matched by Laxey’s Harry Creevy. Adrian Cowin contributed 98 for Laxey, while John Wood made it three consecutive scores of 97 — a habit he will be keen to improve on by a point or two.

Douglas secured a road victory at Kirk Michael despite missing a couple of regulars. Matthew Roosen took the individual honours with 98, while the hosts welcomed back Noah Mayne, who chalked up 95. Mayne has concentrated on 50-metre outdoor shooting in recent years and last competed at short range in 2019. Kirk Michael will be hoping they do not have to wait another six years for his next appearance.

As the Winter League heads into the half-term break, scores are looking increasingly healthy. Port St. Mary have set an early benchmark, while the leading contenders in last season’s individual championship race all posted strong scores this week. With plenty of shooting still to come, the weeks ahead should make for an intriguing contest in both the team and individual championships.