FROM THE EDITOR

We lost two shooting industry visionaries since the last issue of ClayShootingUSA went to press. Sadly, ClayShootingUSA founder Michael Brunton recently died of complications resulting from a stroke, just four years after retirement. Michael was admired for his generosity, guidance, and business acumen, bringing reading enjoyment to thousands who enjoy the shotgun sports.

Michael was a beloved father and husband, a true leader in the publishing industry, a friend to countless people, and a mentor to me. I am but one person of many who will miss him. I will forever be grateful for his leadership and the opportunities he gifted me with. Our hearts here at ClayShootingUSA go out to Michael’s family and friends.

Longtime ClayShootingUSA contributor Derek Moore has been with our magazine from its inception in 2002. Derek’s long history with Michael included traveling to the U.K. as Michael’s guest to shoot the first leg of the Triple Classic on the grounds of Highclere Castle. It was only appropriate that it be Derek who wrote a tribute honoring the life of Michael Brunton.

It is impossible to overstate the influence the late Hal duPont had on sporting clays and the shotgun sports in general. An offspring of the duPont gunpowder family, Mr. duPont went on to found the duPont/Krieghoff dealership and sit at the helm of the NSSA. He helped forge the formation, structure and direction of the NSCA at a time when organized sporting clays in America was but a pipedream. He was known and respected for his boundless energy, strength of character and philanthropy. He leaves a lasting legacy that will stand for generations.

Louise Terry was a close friend of Mr. duPont and compiled a heartfelt tribute to her friend of many years, sharing many intriguing highlights of his long and fruitful life. Reading Louise’s account of Mr. duPont’s life brings to mind the phrase “A life welllived.” The staff of ClayShootingUSA magazine extends our deepest sympathies to the duPont family, and to all of Mr. duPont’s friends whose lives he so deeply touched.

I’m thankful that 2021 is shaping up to be a better year for shooting events than the pandemic compromised year 2020. With any luck, ammunition shortages will soon ease up, affording us the opportunity to more fully participate in the shooting sports that we, as Americans, have historically enjoyed. n

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THE D I T O R

See you on the range. Dana Farrell, Editor