By Ashley Brugnone, CMP Staff Writer
U.S.A. -(AmmoLand.com)- Met with a week of fluctuating climate conditions, the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) hosted the 2021 Talladega Spring Classic, March 16-21, at the CMP Talladega Marksmanship Park in Alabama. Over 400 rifle and pistol entries flowed throughout the 500-acres of the facility, logging a successful turnout to launch the CMP’s spring schedule.
The shifting outdoor atmosphere kept guests on their toes, with temperatures dropping to the point of chilling frost on some mornings then warming into the 60’s later on. Luckily, the unpredictable elements didn’t keep visitors from getting back to CMP’s full lineup of matches – a mix of longtime favorites along with fresh events to challenge both experienced and beginning marksmen.
“All in all, it was a very good event,” said Steve Cooper, CMP’s education and training manager. “The matches ran really well. The CMP Talladega staff did a great job of keeping things maintained all week.”
New competitive matches held at the Talladega Spring Classic included the Pistol 2700, Mid-Range 3×600 Rifle and Benchrest Garand matches. Another exciting first-time addition for the CMP, never before fired at any other event, was the Pistol Marksmanship 101 class. Designed after the National Matches Pistol Small Arms Firing School at Camp Perry, the informative clinic was led by Cooper and CMP pistol coordinator, Jim Henderson. The two also conducted the Range Officer Level II class for rifle and pistol.
“Hendo (Henderson) is a natural instructor,” Cooper said. “It was a real treat for the class to have him share his experiences and knowledge of the sport. He will continue on with us and will instruct with us again at the Eastern
