Inspired by the success of the 30th Annual National Action Pistol Championships and its impact on his hometown of Columbia, Larry Potterfield, President of MidwayUSA, Inc., pledged a $50,000 cash donation today for the 2009 NRA Bianchi Cup. The gift will be used to possibly increase the already $95,000 that is currently given out in cash and prizes.
"This gift is just another wonderful example of the great generosity of Larry and Brenda Potterfield. They are outstanding citizens who are dedicated at bringing more people to the city of Columbia, Missouri," NRA President John C. Sigler said. "They have always been great supporters of the National Rifle Association and huge promoters of the shooting sports. They personify what protecting the second amendment is all about."
This announcement is the first of what may be many enhancements to the NRA Bianchi Cup as the Association prepares for the 30th Anniversary celebration in 2009. For more information about MidwayUSA, a world leader in shooting and reloading supplies, visit www.midwayusa.com.
Pennsylvania's Doug Koenig notched his eleventh NRA Bianchi Cup on Friday. Koenig narrowly beat 2006 NRA Bianchi Cup champion Bruce Piatt on the virtue of center shots, 1918-185X to 1918-182X, respectively. Piatt has won four NRA Bianchi Cups.
Since its inception in 1979, the NRA Bianchi Cup has retained its original course of fire, consisting of four matches: Practical, Barricade, Moving Target and Falling Plates. Speed and accuracy is the key to winning the Championship. Each event is timed and is worth 480 points, equaling a total of 1920 possible points.
Action pistol competitors are permitted to use a two-handed grip, and competitors must start with their guns holstered. During the course of the matches, participants fire at turning cardboard silhouette targets, moving targets, and steel plates that must be knocked down to count as a hit. This type of competition makes the match more appealing to spectators.
The NRA National Action Shooting Tournament is a money-winning event. For his victory in 2008, Doug Koenig took home the 2008 Bianchi Cup trophy, plus total cash awards of over $8,000. Robert Vadasz Metallic Sight win netted him over $5000.
For more information on the championship, or on the NRA Action Shooting Program, call Tom Hughes at (703) 267-1478, or send an email to actionpistol@nrahq.org.
