BASC sponsorship scheme for competitive shooters is now open

The BASC Legacy Sponsorship programme supports young people keen to pursue competitive clay/target shooting, with the hope that one day they might represent their national team, or Team GB, in elite competition.

The BASC Legacy Sponsorship is open to UK citizens who are either current BASC members or have immediate family who are. While there is no minimum award, the maximum award to an individual is £3,000 a year. Up to two awards will be given each year.

The 2024 scheme is now accepting applications. Last year’s recipients were up-and-coming trap shooters Olivia Stevens and William Canter.

Olivia, 19, from Leicestershire, has been shooting, beating and working dogs with her dad from the age of six. She is now shooting for the England team, focusing on Down the Line, and has competed in Ireland and the European Championships. She said: “I am excited to gain this opportunity to work with BASC. I cannot wait to see what the future holds.”

William, 17, from Buckinghamshire has been shooting since the age of 12 and has already represented Great Britain in competitions in Italy and Finland. He is hoping one day to shoot at the Olympics. He said: “It’s a real honour to have secured this sponsorship opportunity with BASC. I’m really looking forward to sharing more about competitive shooting with your members.”

Programme co-ordinator Curtis Mossop, BASC’s head of education and outreach, said: “Climbing the ladder of competitive sports takes a vast amount of commitment. The time dedicated to training and the mental focus to do so are all vital, but it is an incredibly costly venture.

“With the Olympics taking place this year, target shooting disciplines create a platform to normalise shooting to new audiences and we have two fantastic young ambassadors in Olivia and William.”