Offaly plays host to NARGC Intercounty Championships this weekend

ONE of the most anticipated events in Ireland’s rural sporting calendar returns later this month, as the National Association of Regional Game Councils (NARGC) hosts their Intercounty Clay Target Competitions 2025 at the Esker Shooting Grounds near Banagher on Saturday next June 28th and Sunday June 29th.

With over 1,100 attendees expected, including competitors, volunteers, spectators, and exhibitors, the event stands as Ireland’s largest clay target competition — showcasing the skill, sportsmanship, and community pride that defines this discipline.

The highlight of the weekend will be the 50-target events, contested by both county and club teams, as well as individual shooters. Alongside this, three pool shoot events — including a compact 20-target sporting layout, the strategic a Clay Snooker style shoot, and a challenging Extreme Target — which will keep competitors engaged across both days.

“This is much more than a competition,” said Dan Curly, Chairman of the NARGC. “It’s a national celebration of our sport - one that combines rural heritage, competition, and inclusion in a friendly, family-oriented environment.”

“The Intercounty Shoot is the flagship event of the NARGC calendar,” Curly added. “It brings together NARGC Club members of all levels, from across the country, and reflects the values of safety, inclusion, and rural sporting pride.”

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This year marks the final event to be organised by one of their longest-serving and most esteemed members, Chris Gavican, and the first to be organised by their new General Manager Philip Finnegan. Chris, who is the Fund Administrator, will be retiring this December after an extraordinary 42 years of unwavering service. His final competition this year is not only a milestone but a celebration of a remarkable career that spans over four decades with The NARGC.

This year’s event will also feature a digital shooting simulator, aimed especially at younger attendees and newcomers. The simulator provides a fun, safe, and interactive experience that allows participants to develop skills and confidence in a supervised setting.

A dedicated Para-Sporting clay event will also be held on Sunday, highlighting the NARGC’s commitment to accessibility and equal participation for those with physical impairments.

Visitors will enjoy a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, complete with trade stands, catering services, and an NARGC advisory tent offering guidance on licensing, conservation, and sporting development. Volunteers and referees will ensure a smooth-running and well-organised weekend for all involved.

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