'Best Father's Day present so far!'

This Father’s Day weekend I was given one of the best Father’s Day presents I could have received. While participating in the 25th annual Quigley Match outside Forsyth, MT, my daughter Brianna Sims of Malta, MT shot a 34 out of a possible 48 winning the Woman’s Division and besting her dad in the process. She also received two straight “8” pins for getting all 8 shots on both targets or as we like to say “cleaning the target”. This year’s match had a record number 698 shooters for the two day event held in hot and pretty strong winds. It consists of 6 different targets from the offhand “bucket” at 305 yards to the “buffalo” at 805 yards shot off cross sticks. Bri and I have participated together for 5 years now and she has gotten better each time. The time together makes Father’s Day special but this year is the best so far. Bri competes using her own Remington Rolling Block in 45-70 caliber with black powder loaded lead bullets she prepares herself. She is such a joy to coach and is becoming quite a spotter too.

It’s not often a father gets to share his favorite past time with a daughter who enjoys it as much as he does, let alone to see her blossom into a winning shooter! We enjoy dressing in 1870’s attire as many of the participants do, but Bri really steals the show in her get-up and has to pose for many photos with her colorful flowered hats she arranges each day. She also has a really nice photo in an Outdoor Life article about the Quigley Match from a couple years ago where she is decked out and proudly holding her rifle, everyone should check it out. If you happen to run into Bri ask to see the beautiful plaque she was awarded and look for that big wonderful smile of hers!

Many thanks and a big congratulation from a very proud, extremely happy and, amazingly fortunate dad (mom is also very proud and happy for you!).

Rob and Dawn Marchion

Proud parents in Havre, MT