Leading
Senior Shootizens - Zdeněk Němeček (Cover)
Meet Your RD - Kevin Strowger (GBR)
Dear IPSC members and friends,
It is with great pride and excitement that I welcome you all to a new year of dynamic shooting — the IPSC Shooting Season 2025 is now officially open!
This year, our calendar is brimming with thrilling opportunities: four major Continental and World Championships, along with hundreds of Level III matches taking place across all Regions of the globe. These events reflect the strength and passion of our community. I encourage every athlete, from our seasoned champions to our rising stars, to train with discipline, dry fire regularly, and compete in as many matches as possible.
No matter your age, background, or local weather conditions — your enthusiasm and skill continue to impress and inspire us all. I greatly look forward to seeing you in action, demonstrating the true spirit of IPSC.
Let us take a moment to extend our deepest gratitude to those who make our sport possible: our dedicated Range Officers, some of whom have selflessly supported IPSC for over 40 years as the backbone of our competitions.
We also recognize the tireless efforts of Instructors, Trainers, and Coaches who invest in developing our Juniors and Super Juniors — the future of Practical Shooting!
To the family members, Sponsors, Partners, Patrons, and countless volunteers: your unwavering support and commitment to IPSC do not go unnoticed. You are all an essential part of our global family, and we thank you sincerely.
IPSC has grown into a truly global sport, widely recognized and deeply respected. We continue to set an example of safe, responsible, and skilled firearm handling — becoming a role model for what it means to be both an athlete and a responsible firearms owner. With every passing year, we take one more step toward Olympic recognition, and we must remain united and focused on this shared goal.
As we step into this exciting 2025 season, I encourage you all to strive for excellence, push your limits, and most importantly, enjoy every moment. Compete with honor, support one another, and carry forward the values that define IPSC.
I wish you all a successful, fulfilling, and memorable season.
Thank you, and good luck to all!
Yours sincerely,
Vitaly Kryuchin IPSC President
From October 5th to 6th, 2024, the city of Osijek, Croatia, hosted the prestigious 30th Osijek Cup, a Level III IPSC competition, in conjunction with the Croatian Nationals, which is a Level II competition. This event attracted elite shooters from Croatia and neighboring regions.
Osijek, situated in the eastern part of Croatia along the Drava River, was an ideal venue for this event. The city is renowned for its rich history, impressive Baroque architecture, delicious cuisine, and warm local hospitality.
The 30th Osijek Cup saw a strong turnout of 82 competitors representing five nations: Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Lithuania. In contrast, the Croatian Practical Shooting Championship, a Level II event limited to Croatian competitors, gathered 62 domestic participants. This diversity underscored the significance of Osijek as a central hub for practical shooting in the region.
The Pampas Shooting Range in Osijek is a centerpiece of Croatian shooting sports, renowned for its top-tier facilities and history of hosting national and international events. Established in 1985 to commemorate two centuries of Croatian
With 50 m field of view, the K18i-2 sets new standards for IPSC and 3-Gun matches. It comes with match proven features like 8 x zoom, an extra bright illuminated 3GR reticle with unique MAX LIGHT function and an individually adjustable lever.
shooting heritage, Pampas was initially constructed to host the European Shooting Championship and has since become one of the most respected ranges in the region. Over the years, this range has welcomed numerous prestigious events in shooting sports, including the ISSF World Championship Shotgun in 2022, solidifying its reputation as a world-class venue. Situated within reach of Osijek’s vibrant city center, the Pampas Shooting Range offers a variety of specialized areas, catering to both pistol and rifle disciplines, with ranges extending from 10 to 300 meters. Additionally, an airgun range is available for air rifle and pistol shooters.
The competition officially opened on Saturday, October 5 and featured speeches from notable representatives, including Dubravko Gvozdanović, president and RD of the Croatian Practical Shooting Association, and Franjo Nađ, president of the host club, PSC Pampas.
The 30th Osijek Cup featured 12 challenging stages designed to test shooters’ accuracy, speed, and tactical prowess, adhering to IPSC’s rigorous Level III competition standards. The Croatian Nationals, though smaller in scale with 10 stages, showcased high-caliber shooting, further cementing the participants’ reputation. According to competitors, The stages were very appealing and well-organized, featuring shooting targets that were both tactically challenging and required shooters to demonstrate skill at controlled speeds.
Due to the unique scoring method for these “two competitions in one,” local shooter Tomislav Tomljanović emerged as the winner of a highly prestigious Level 3 match: the 30th Cup of Osijek in the Production Division, which had the largest number of competitors. He was awarded the most significant IPSC recognition, the presidential medal. Unfortunately for him, he missed out on the national champion title, which was claimed by Davor Majstorović, a strong local rival from KPS Strijelac of the nearby town of Vinkovci. With this victory, Majstorović regained the national champion title that he lost to Tomljanović last year. While Tomislav Tomljanović from PSC Pampas clinched the overall title in the Production Division of the Osijek Cup, Bosnia’s Elvir Džuho secured the Senior title. Miran Jazbinšek of Slovenia
dominated the Production Optics Division, also winning the Senior category, and Ivan Kopčić from Croatia took first place in the Standard Division, with Boris Časar of Bosnia earning the Senior title.
A team of dedicated Range Masters, NROIs, and match officials oversaw the match. Their expertise ensured that the event ran efficiently, and their efforts were recognized by competitors and attendees alike.
The success of this year’s event has set a high standard for practical shooting in the region, ensuring Osijek’s place as a key destination for future IPSC competitions.
Las Gabias, where history meets serenity—embrace the charm of Granada’s hidden gem!
In March 2025, the picturesque town of Las Gabias in Granada was the setting for the I Fase Copa Presidente, held on March 7th at the renowned CEAR Juan Carlos I Shooting Range, known for hosting a previous ISSF World Cup.
Despite challenging weather with persistent heavy rain and temperatures at 10 degrees celsius, 317 competitors participated over two days competing at 12 Stages starting the Pre-Match on Friday the 7th and the Main Match on 8th. The stages were carefully designed for the athletes to showcase their performances particularly speed and accuracy, shooting on the move, different ready and start conditions and one stage with one shot per target.
The host city, Granada is a well known for the Spanish tapas and the destination for its heritage places such as Alhambra and the
Moorish Palace. Most of the athletes were from Spain and they easily traveled to the match by car; however, Granada is a frequent tourist destination which has many airway connections from all Spanish regions directly to the Granada Airport.
Regarding accommodations, Granda province has over 260 hotels of which most are located 15-20 minutes from the shooting range.
All IPSC Level 3 matches are supported by the Spanish Royal Federation keeping the level of the organization together with FUNDETO in this case at its best.
The Awarding Ceremony was held at the same place at the hole of the building the Olimpic Shooting range. Apart from President’s medals, the top 3 competitors in each category were also awarded with a diploma and a medal from the Royal Spanish Shooting Federation.
Open Overall
1st HONRUBIA RUIZ, FCO.JAVIER
2nd MEDINA MESTRES, DANIEL, 3rd ABASCAL DOMEME, JUAN PABLO
Standard Overall
1st MONTERO BERNARDINO, LUIS
2nd FERREIRO RODRIGUEZ, JESUS 3rd MARTIN CASTAÑO, JOSE FRANCISCO
Production Overall
1st DE COBOS ABREU, EDUARDO 2nd KRYUCHIN, NIKITA
3rd SANCHEZ PARDO, CARLOS JAVIER
Classic Overall
1st PEREZ BAZ, JOSE VICENTE
2nd MANOSALVAS DE LA TORRE, FRANCISCO Se 3rd DIEZ HERRER, JUAN ANTONIO
Production Optics Overall
1st ZANON BLASCO, JOSE
2nd PITARCH GARCIA, GABRIEL
3rd ALCARAZ PEREZ, ENRIQUE
This 1st Phase of the Spanish President Cup (1ra Fase Copa Presidente) played a big role for many athletes as it was the last match for the selection of the National Team to go and represent Spain at the the next 2025 Handgun World Shoot in South Africa.
On a yearly basis there are 5 fases of the president cup level 3 matches in Spain held in deferent regions allowing all athletes to travel at convenience fairly from their respected provinces. 1 of 5 fases is usually held in Granada.
The
How did you first hear about IPSC?
I heard about IPSC shooting when I was 6 years old since my dad used to be an IPSC shooter back in 1989. He used to take me and my older brother to his competitions and that’s when I really got to see it in action.
For how long have you been shooting?
After being a spectator for a long time, I decided to give it a try, a lot of friends have been telling me how cool the sport is and I have been now shooting for more than 2 years.
What Division do you shoot and why?
I shoot Open Division because my dad taught me with his Open firearm how to grip and how to control recoil, this is why I find Open Division very comfortable for me; it’s fun to shoot this challenging Division that always lets me develop myself and improve all the time and to
make me ready for a bigger match in Thailand or a future International match.
What is the coolest about IPSC shooting?
IPSC is a unique sport that always tests your skills in adapting your shooting style to the particular courses of fire. In addition, every match is different and challenging and I love the different courses of fire, and the competitive aspect of shooting with other athletes, make new friends or meet old ones from around the world.
What do your friends and family think about you shooting IPSC?
My family always has been encouraging and supportive of my IPSC shooting and they are very happy for me, and they were surprised when I told them I wanted to start competing in IPSC shooting. Some of my friends are from the IPSC world but also I have many friends that have never heard of IPSC and they get very excited when I tell them all about this.
Kenya, a centrally located gem in Africa, is globally recognized as a top tourist destination—famous for the spectacular Maasai Mara Migration, its breathtaking coastlines along the Indian Ocean, and the warmth of its people. In Kenya, hospitality isn’t just taught—it’s embedded in our culture.
While we’re best known internationally for our dominance in athletics—where Kenyans frequently grace the podium—sports shooting has been part of our national sporting identity for over 70 years. Traditionally, the focus has been on ISSF disciplines under the Kenya Sports Shooting Federation (KSSF), now ably chaired by Mr. Mohamed Shoaib.
A more recent addition to the shooting sports scene is IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation), which was introduced in 2019 by Mr. Riaz Abdulgani, the current IPSC Regional Director (RD).
Before 2002, handgun competitions were virtually non-existent in Kenya. The introduction of IDPA (International Defensive Pistol Association) in 2002 by Mr. Riaz Abdulgani and Mr. Memba Muriuki, now the Chairman of the Kenya Regiment Rifle Club, marked a turning point.
By 2019, a focused effort began to convert active IDPA shooters to IPSC. The dynamic and competitive nature of IPSC quickly won favor, setting it apart from the defensively oriented IDPA discipline.
In 2022, Kenya received the “Best Upcoming Region” award at the IPSC General Assembly
in Greece. This accolade was a direct result of hosting our first Level 3 Sanctioned Match and the successful MISIA Instructors Course. Our progress was further validated by visits from IPSC President Mr. Vitaly and Mr. Hazem Hosny of Egypt, President of the African Sports Shooting Federation. In fact, the seeds of IPSC Egypt were sown during this historic meeting. Today, Team Egypt is a regular participant in our sanctioned matches, the most recent being held in November 2024.
Like many developing nations, Kenya faces
limitations in terms of resources for sporting development. Despite these challenges, our success lies in the unwavering commitment of our civilian shooting community and a handful of passionate and selfless officials whose main driving force is their love for practical shooting.
In true African spirit, camaraderie and unity extend beyond national borders. The bonds between African IPSC regions are strong—Hazem in Egypt, Osman in South Africa, and Tara in Zimbabwe— making this a truly Pan-African movement.
To ensure shooting sports are not confined to the capital, Nairobi, the Kenya Sports Shooting Federation has actively promoted the sport across the country. Our aim is national inclusion and county-wide participation.
Here are Kenya’s key shooting ranges:
• Mombasa (24 bays) – A coastal tourist haven, ideal for hosting a World Shoot with abundant accommodation options.
• Nairobi (18 bays) – The capital and business hub of East Africa, well-equipped with infrastructure for major international sporting events like the Safari Rally.
• Mount Kenya Region (12 bays) – A scenic
range situated on the slopes of Mt. Kenya.
• Naivasha (21 bays) – A lakeside town that recently hosted our sanctioned match in November 2024.
Since 2020, we have maintained a robust annual competition calendar consisting of ten Level 2 League Matches from January to October, capped off by a Level 3 Sanctioned Match in November or December. This format has proven effective and continues to grow in popularity.
Much of our continued success can be attributed to several key individuals:
Mr. Memba Muriuki – Chairman of the Kenya Regiment Rifle Club and founder of IPSC Rifle in Kenya.
Mr Alykhan Keshavjee - the engine that ensures all the IPSC administrative work at the secretariat ticks with clockwork precision,
Mr. Frank Ambundo (RM) – Range Master, tirelessly sets up league matches every month, regardless of weather. IROA membership pending.
Mr. Gikonyo Mwangi (“Uncle Giks”) – A beloved figure, instrumental in monthly match setups. IROA membership pending.
Mr. Peter Kimani Njoroge (“PN”) – Dedicated and consistent in match setup.
Mr. Nick Mijema – Steadfast supporter of league match execution, rain or shine.
With the Africa Handgun Championships 2024 and the World Shoot 2025 both being hosted in South Africa, Kenyan participation is not only possible but practical. Regional travel within the continent is more affordable, allowing us to plan for our largest delegation ever to represent Kenya on the world stage this September.
As we prepare for the World Shoot, we proudly introduce Kenya’s top IPSC athletes:
• Mr. Ibrahim Ndungu – Kenya’s top-ranked shooter and the only Platinum IPSC Patron from Africa.
• Mr. Issa Issa – Kenya’s #1 in the Open Division and a paragon of humility.
• Also in Open Division- Super Senior, Mr. Sunny Syan a.k.a “ uncle” , ever competitive, always giving the pack a run for their money.
• Mr. Thomas Kilu – Standard Division leader, embodying the brilliance and hospitality Kenya is known for.
• Mr. Sammy Onyango – production optics Division contender and IDPA promoter who exemplifies sportsmanship by supporting all shooting disciplines in Kenya.
• Ms. Agnes Muchiri – Kenya’s top female shooter and an active police officer.
These athletes are currently undergoing intense training in anticipation of competing against the world’s best this September.
How long have you been involved in IPSC shooting?
I first joined the UKPSA in 1993, which gave me the opportunity to shoot Handgun in the GB region before the ban at the end of 1997. After that, I transitioned to Shotgun as the primary discipline in 1998.
How long have you been Regional Director?
I have served as Regional Director for 11 years now, with a small gap in 2023. I also serve on the IPSC Continental Council, representing European regions, and I am the Mini Rifle Rules Director. I’ve contributed to the sport by assisting in the writing and editing of the MISIA manuals.
What other positions have you had within your IPSC Region? Tell us a bit about what you did.
I have been an NROI Range Official since 2000 and progressed to NROI Rangemaster in all disciplines by
2014. In 2023, I joined the ranks of IROA. I’m also a coach across all disciplines, although progressing to an instructor qualification level has taken a back seat due to time constraints.
Do you currently shoot IPSC? What Division? What was the last match you shot?
Yes, I regularly compete in IPSC competitions across Handgun, Mini Rifle, and Shotgun, and we also have Actionair in Great Britain. My main discipline is Shotgun, competing in the Standard Division with a Breda B12iX. I was honored to earn a Silver medal as part of the Standard Senior team at the Shotgun World Shoot held in Pattaya, Thailand, in December 2023. Additionally, I have secured several IPSC President’s Medals at Level 3 competitions. My last international match was the Benelli Cup in Italy in October 2024. I take pride in competing at a high level and take the opportunity to be on the ranges and shoot any free moment I get (and there are not many at the moment).
What has been the most challenging situation you had to deal with as Regional Director?
There have been many challenges over the past 11 years, but a significant current issue is the upcoming lead ban and its potential impact on our sport. Addressing this requires the UKPSA and the Regional Director to take a proactive stance.
Our priority is to implement a clear plan to influence the decisions being proposed and ensure that the voices of our community are heard. This involves engaging with
key stakeholders, challenging the measures proposed in the HSE proposal, promoting viable alternatives, and safeguarding the future of all shooting disciplines. In 2024, we faced what was described as a “fallow year,” but this was far from the case. Through extensive collaboration with clubs, regional organizers, and others, I together with the team, turned it into a productive and dynamic year for our region.
Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be an incredibly busy and critical year. It is vital that the UKPSA supports all disciplines and ensures competitors are well-prepared for Level 4 and Level 5 competitions.
Do you have any good advice for others willing to go for a Regional Director position?
Most members are not interested in the politics of the sport—they just want matches and the opportunity to shoot. But you as the RD can manage the politics for them to ensure that the sport in your region grows and develops. I think you need to be clear -you will never please everyone, but if you can satisfy 90% of the membership, and you can ensure many competitions and training opportunities for members and support them, you are on the right track.
M: Our versions of how we met are a bit different. It all began at a firefighting competition I organized, where Petr was one of the competitors. During a lunch break, I was making my rounds to check on the teams when Petr jokingly lamented the lack of food. In a flurry, I sprinted to the buffet, only to discover that there was only one last lunch (waiting for me). Without a second thought, I gave it to him and his team, who, as it turned out, had food all along! Amused by the situation, Petr invited me to dinner as a thank-you. Little did he know that this playful joke would end up this way. After that evening I never left!
long have you been together?
P: We met in 2015 and are excited to be celebrating our 10th anniversary this year. We’ve been married for 4 years (happily of course) and began our journey in IPSC in 2017. Since 2019, we’ve both worked as Range
Officers, and we were proud to become IROA Range Officers in 2024.
P: Our journey into IPSC began as a spontaneous decision, but it quickly evolved into a lifelong passion we both cherish. We love the dynamic and unpredictability of the sport, which allows us to actively engage and grow together. The camaraderie we’ve built with friends and the chance to connect with new faces is invaluable. Competing not only tests our skills as shooters but also provides us with unique experiences from the perspective of Range Officers, making every event memorable and rewarding.
M: We’ve mastered the art of teamwork: Petr cleans the guns and takes care about our ammo and equipment and I book the hotels and plan other things, which is great because I’m still convinced that guns can self-clean like a cat. We’ve discovered that our scores improve dramatically when we shoot apart, which is perfect because it gives us a chance to gather completely different stories for the car ride home. It’s like a couples therapy session, but with more bullets and less heartfelt confessions! It also gives us material for those awkward car rides home like “you won’t believe what I didn’t hit today!”
M: We have two little boys who are way too young for IPSC training (one just turned 3 and the other will be 1 in June). While they’re not quite ready to shoot the gun, we’re busy training them in the fine arts of case collecting and ammo reloading. Just imagine their excitement as they “help” with the ammo while also becoming expert case-collectors, because nothing says family bonding like turning your living room into a mini ammo factory! After all, we want them to understand that competition isn’t just about pulling the trigger!
What’s the next match you will be participating on together?
M: We can’t wait for the 2025 PCC/MR World Shoot in
the Czech Republic, where I’ll be organizing and Petr will be ROing, because who doesn’t want to spend their vacation running around yelling “Don’t eat that ammo! Don´t put your brother into the range bag! Don’t lick those earplugs! Why did you draw a dinosaur in dad´s rulebook?” Sometimes it´s more competition who can hold a gun or timer and a toddler at the same time!
Do you have any advice for other couples who practice IPSC shooting together?
M: Enjoy every match, it will always bring you new knowledge, new friends and new experiences. Just remember: take a break and attempt a weekend off, just to see if you remember how to socialize outside of your IPSC community. You might also discover shocking truths, like how many dust bunnies have formed their own civilization under your couch.
P: Don’t let her shoot MAJOR, unless you’re ready to turn your life into an endless series of cases collecting and ammo reloading!
How many years have you been shooting?
I have been shooting for 11 years. I started shooting when I was 11 years old, but I really started practical shotgun, and mini rifle when I was 14 and when I got my licence.
In 2022 my friend told me about the IPSC opportunities and I started competing internationally in 2023 and I was lucky to be selected to represent GB in Thailand in December 2023. I also won my first junior title at CESO that year and bronze at the Italian nationals. This summer I finished my degree in film production and was able to concentrate a bit more on my competitions, which paid off as I won all UK competitions and took the GB IPSC champion title.
What do you like best about IPSC shooting?
I like the ever-changing aspect. Each match offers different challenges. It is all about your fundamentals and allows
you to build those fundamentals to succeed, such as your shooting speed, your agility, position and recoil management for example. You never know what to expect (within rules of course).
How often do you practice at the range?
I practice 2 times per week if I can. I focus on my fundamentals, and drills, I like to isolate certain points to work on. I work on stage planning as well as I’m left handed, so need to work and plan my stages differently from other competitors.
Who do you consider your inspiration or mentor?
The two people I would consider my mentors are Josh Kenny (former junior World Champion and bronze medalist at the 2023 World Shoot) and Nick Du Plessis Senior World Champion. They work very hard, are extremely focussed and their advice to me has been nothing but amazing. When they watch me shoot they are able pinpoint areas for improvement every time.
What is your match pistol and ammo?
I shoot a Benelli M2 speed which in my view is the best standard shotgun and I am so very grateful for all the support I have from Benelli. I will be looking forward to shoot a left handed M2 in 2025. My preferred ammo is Fiocchi TT2 birdshot and I rely on my king competition belt and caddies. For Pistol I shot a KMR.22 LBP and Geco semi-automatic ammunition.
Are you active in any other sport?
I used to play a lot of Rugby and American football but I have recently stopped due to risk of injury, so now I work out at home with my quell.
Do you dry fire or use an airsoft gun at home?
I dry fire at least twice a week at home and also practice loading with dummies and mounting the shotgun as well as working on stage planning. I also watch videos of my training or competitions to analyze my performance and work on improvement plans.
What advice do you have for up and coming shooters?
Dont give up, You have to keep trying and be persistent. Focus on your fundamentals but also enjoy it.
When and where did you first discover IPSC shooting? I’ve been shooting since 1972.
Until 1993, I was in shooting Olympic disciplines (target shooting with rifle), I even managed to equal the world record at the time. Information about dynamic shooting according to IPSC rules started to penetrate the Czech Republic only after 1989 and I recognized that dynamic shooting was right for me. I was at the birth of the National Practical Shooting Association in the Czech Republic, so I have been shooting IPSC since 1992.
What inspired you to begin shooting?
I’ve been attracted to firearms since I was a kid and I had my first air rifle when I was about ten years old, but no one in my family shot or hunted. A friend of my father took me to a shooting range in the spring of 1972 and I literally fell in love with shooting.
“Focus on learning to shoot good points, speed comes with confidence”
Which divisions do you shoot, and why?
I only shoot Handgun. I started with the Standard Division, then briefly the Production Division. For the longest time I shot the Revolver Division, from 2002 until 2016. In this division I also won medals at the World Shoots in 2008, 2011, 2014 and the European Handgun Championships in 2007, 2010 and 2013. After the technical rules changed for the Revolver Division, I returned to the Production Division, which I still shoot today. I have always shot guns with “iron” sights. These guns interest me and, in my opinion, most closely match the proper name of our sport, “practical shooting”. As long as my eyes allow it, I won’t use a “red dot”.
Which make and model firearm do you use?
For the last three years I have been shooting a pistol from the Czech manufacturer Arma Zeka, model AZ-P1. What I appreciate most about this gun is its excellent ergonomics and absolute reliability.
What do your friends and family think about you shooting IPSC?
Shooting has literally been a part of my life since I was 14 and the people around me take me for that. I have a lot of support from my wife and I appreciate that immensely.
What other sports or activities do you also enjoy?
I used to run a lot, now my knees won’t allow it anymore. I try to keep fit by hiking and physical work at the cottage where my wife and I spend our free time. My wife and I also like to travel and explore new places around the world, which I sometimes combine with participating in a competition. That’s very nice.
Do you have any tips for the Young Guns?
I would probably advise them not to be discouraged by the first setbacks and to be patient and to watch the experienced shooters closely, but not just try to copy them without thinking. We’re all a little different and we all have to find our own way. Those who persevere and train hard will surely get good results.
A NEW LEVEL OF ACCURACY AND SPEED
The highest performing CZ Sport Special for the IPSC Standard division
- NEW “BULL” BARREL FOR INCREASED ACCURACY, BETTER CONTROL AND A SIGNIFICANTLY LONGER SERVICE LIFE
- HAND-FITTED BARREL-TO-SLIDE AND SLIDE-TO-FRAME FOR THE TIGHTEST TOLERANCES
- CZ SHADOW 2 STYLE FRONT SIGHT ATTACHMENT SYSTEM FOR QUICK AND EASY SIGHT REMOVAL
- EXTRA SERRATIONS ON TOP FRONT EDGE OF SLIDE ENSURE MORE COMFORTABLE COCKING
- HIGHER POSITIONED AMBIDEXTROUS SAFETIES
- REDUCED HEIGHT MAGAZINE RELEASE BUTTON
- MODIFIED RECOIL SPRING GUIDE SIMPLIFIES DISASSEMBLY
It was cold and snowy as participants arrived at a shooting range just a few hours outside of Seoul. Despite the weather, the excitement was palpable—some had been waiting for this course for over three years.
South Korea is a relatively new Region in the IPSC world, and the MISIA course is playing a vital role in helping it grow with a strong, safe foundation. MISIA (Main and International Shooting Instructor Association) sets high standards for instructor training, especially in emerging regions. By offering structured education and certification, it ensures that new areas like South Korea can develop quickly and responsibly.
This particular course lasted two days and included both theoretical and practical components. The practical exam holds high expectations: every instructor must prove their own shooting proficiency
to ensure they can properly demonstrate techniques and drills to future students. In addition to live instruction, each participant receives a comprehensive manual containing structured lesson plans, step-by-step instructions, photos, and videos.
This resource is designed to guide new instructors as they welcome the next generation of athletes into the sport. At its core, being an IPSC instructor is more than just a title—it’s a responsibility. MISIA instructors help promote a safe gun-handling culture and reduce the risk of accidents by teaching proper techniques and fostering awareness. In a rapidly growing region like South Korea, that mission is more important than ever.
The success of this course marks a major step in the country’s development within the IPSC community. With passionate students, clear standards, and a strong educational framework, MISIA is helping build not just better shooters—but safer, more responsible ambassadors of the sport.
The MISIA training schedule is constantly being updated - if you want to find out more information, please visit https://misia.world/
How long have you been shooting?
I learned my basics when I was 17 (year 2011) but my academic studies were my priority so I just shot during weekends. It was an on and off training until 2015. After I graduated college, I worked in a company for 2 years and quit shooting. Then, I decided to manage our family business and found the time to come back to practice IPSC shooting again.
Who and/or what inspired you to begin IPSC shooting?
I was inspired by my father, Dominador Tampoco. At first, he was teaching my older brother but he got busy with his job. Then I told papa that I wanted to try shooting as well, then we started training together.
Which division do you shoot, and why?
I shot Standard Cal. 40 when I started but because I was so petite back then, the major load standard gun’s recoil was too much for my little hands; then, our gun club friends recommended to shift on Open Division.
Since then I never shifted to any other pistol division.
What do your friends and family think about you shooting IPSC?
My family and friends are always supportive and proud of my achievements.
What other sports or activities do you enjoy besides IPSC shooting?
Regular trips to the gym and doing plyometrics.
What do you think about the social aspects of IPSC?
For an ambivert like me, socializing in IPSC shooting community brings the extrovert personality in me.
I enjoy training and chatting about business, game plan and experimenting different techniques with the shooters.
How do you balance your IPSC shooting activities with your other commitments?
Listing my to do’s in my calendar with specific time and date. I also partner it with time management so I’ll be able to execute all of my commitments for the day. Prioritize, organize and planning; however, the latter became a challenge for me lately.
What is the best way to get more female competitors into IPSC?
One of the ways that I’m already doing is by training females with correct basic fundamentals. A great start and easiest way to convince more female competitors is to make them know the feeling of actual shooting.
I post shooting videos in social media to make them think and believe that they can too. And also by inspiring them with achievements in this sport.
What tips do you have for other aspiring female IPSC competitors?
Be sure to learn the correct basic shooting fundamental first. It is hard to unlearn bad habits. Then, focus on specific trainings, workouts and mind set and finally, be consistent and train with discipline and will see you will reap all the benefits of your hard work.
DINO EVANGELINOS
IROA PRESIDENT
Dear IROA Cadre:
IROA as an international organization is responsible for the education and implementation of operational systems in the confederation.
Our goal this year is to create consistency throughout the confederation. Our plan of action is to implement new programs and tools that will unify each region under one system of operation.
This accomplishment will inevitably assure our place in the world of dynamic sports.
Regarding the PCC and Mini Rifle World Shoot in Czech Republic, all IROA and NROI level IV and V officials have been selected, and the completed stages are awaiting final approval.
The organization has worked hard to accommodate all 150 officials, and I expect this match to be one of the best held in this Region.
Officials for the European Shotgun Championship in Hungary have also been selected, and I have been informed that range improvements for unexpected weather conditions have been completed.
Selection for IROA officials for the Action Air World Shoot in the Philippines is presently underway.
Selection for the World Shoot in South Africa is yet to be finalised.
IROA Projects for 2025:
• Create a match directors manual
• Finalize IROA policies and manual
• Finalize course design manual
• Finalize Chief Range Officer manual
• Finalize closing ceremony manual
• Update ESS seminar and manuals for Range Officers, Chief Range Officers, and Range Masters
The new Level I IROA seminar will include electronic exams and a one-day hands-on practice. Discussions on how to update Level II are underway.
As we are aware that course design has always been a challenge for Range Officers, our course design committee is looking closely at improving this situation.
Often IROA rules get interpreted differently; in the name of consistency, we would like to elicit volunteers to assist us in creating videos that can be effortlessly followed. These videos will be posted on the IROA Academy. Therefore, if you have a few free hours available to help us with this project, along with other projects, we need you.
At this time we are also working on opening an IROA store web site to provide you with proper attire, and we hope that Maximo Tanfoglio will support us for the next three years with free Level IV and V shirts.
In closing, we have much work to accomplish this year, and we need your help. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have a few hours per week to spare.
Best regards,
Dino.
How many years have you been officiating?
I started IPSC in 1998 by taking the safety course because I was involved in organising Level 1 and 2 matches and I wanted to shoot also. Because of that I did the Range Officer course and became an NROI Range Officer back in 1999. Together with my friend Peter Schouwink we worked matches in the Netherlands and abroard; he inspired me to become IROA in 2000.
Atending IPSC matches is not only competing/shooting together but also meeting people, friends and making new friends. Many know me from equipment check from Level IV and V matches. Sometimes it happens the equipment of the competitor does not comply with the rules, but there is always a solution for the problem,
and until now we’ve always solved the problem. All could shoot the match within the rules, so being together with friends and helping them to safely shoot the match.
All matches are memorable but some have something extra. If I have to choose I have three: my first Level 4, the European Handgun Championship Germany 2001. I was just a full IROA and the opening ceremony, competitors from all over the world, a prematch and 4 match days and a closing/ award ceremony make an impression if you are only used to small matches.
Secondly, the European Handgun Championship Portugal 2013. This would be my last match with my best friend Peter who intoduced me into IPSC. He was diagnosed with cancer shortly before the match and died only a moth after, so this match is special for me.
And the last one is the African Championship 2024, I was asked to be the Range Master for this match. When I started officiating all those years ago I could not imagine that one day I would be the Range Master of a Level IV match. It was a great honor
The rule book, on a tablet for easy seeking. Multitool for small easy repairs, notebook with a pen, mesuring tape, overlays and magnifying glass. If I know I have to work on the equipment check I will bring tools to do that. IPSC box, trigger weight and other mesuring devices. And a first-aid kit, luckly I never had to use it
Work with experienced ROs and ask questions. Do this at many different places and ROs as possible. Knowledge comes with experience, and that takes time. It took me 25 years to be where I am now and I’m still learning on every match because no match or situation is the same.
Since 1976, the International Practical Shooting Confederation has served as the IPSC sport’s global governing organization, where today handgun, rifle, shotgun, PCC, mini-rifle, and action air are among the recognized shooting disciplines.
IPSC has an active global community of enthusiasts who share a passion for the sport. The culture values camaraderie, sportsmanship, and improvement.
Training and competitions encourage continual skill development and a supportive atmosphere.
The outcome of an IPSC stage is calculated by dividing the number of points earned on targets by the amount of time required to finish a stage. To win, the athlete needs to be the fastest and most accurate! As a result, both competitors and spectators find the competitions to be highly engaging.
IPSC also places a strong focus on following the laws governing the sport and on a safe gun handling culture and practices. The most crucial requirement for any athlete at IPSC is the ability to handle a gun responsibly and safely; enjoyment and friendship will undoubtedly follow!
To promote practical shooting as a sport around the world, IPSC since 2018 introduced its Partnership Program where its collaborates with a number of companies-producers of sports gear, accessories and all sorts of products used by IPSC athletes.
The IPSC Partnership Program was created to foster and organize the expansion and advancement of the practical shooting sport, to offer training materials, and organize competitions at different levels; it carries on the organization’s longstanding tradition of funding sports for global development in a self-sufficient and responsible governance.
Since 2018 big names like CZ, Benelli, Kahles, CamPro, Shield Sights, Dillon Precision, and many more have joined the IPSC Partnership Program.
The program’s objective is to forge new alliances and fortify current ones in order to help everyone reach their greatest potential via IPSC sport. Depending on the shared objectives for such collaboration between sports and producers, Partnerships might last anywhere from a year to several years.
We would like to extend an invitation to new Partners to join us on this exciting journey into the world of IPSC shooting.
Together, we can promote the spirit of competition, skill, and camaraderie within the shooting community.
Let’s make a positive impact and grow this amazing sport together!
For the most current and detailed information about the Partnership Program, including how to get involved, visit the official IPSC website or contact IPSC Headquarters directly at marketing@ipsc.org.
2025 IPSC PCC/MINI RIFLE WORLD SHOOT CZECH
May 12-25
2025 EUROPEAN SHOTGUN CHAMPIONSHIP
HUNGARY
September 11-28
