PNSA National Open fires off Saturday

MANILA, Philippines—The much-awaited 2011 Philippine National Shooting Association (PNSA) National Open fires off Saturday with Randy Paronda shooting for his fourth straight title and rising star Jason Valdez out to enhance his growing reputation as the country’s top air rifle shooter at the PSC-PNSA Shooting Range in Fort Bonifacio.

Perked up by his three-title romp in the Sniper Challenge last August, Paronda is out to stamp his class in the Bench Rest (BR50) where he’s not only the defending champion but also the event’s record holder.

He ruled two categories in the small bore rifle aside from winning the Master Rifleman Semi-Auto Open division title in the Sniper Challenge, thus making him the overwhelming favorite to win the event for the second straight year.

Also fancied to win in the opening day of the four-weekend tournament organized by PNSA president Mikee Romero are Gilbert Manela, Louie Gonzales, Maria Pardon, Gal Vicencio, Eli Canivel and Pagcor director Eugene Manalastas.

“We’re staging this event not only to gauge the sharpness and readiness of our national team members but also to increase awareness in the sport. Given proper government support we’re certain we can produce world-class athletes and perhaps Olympic winners someday,” said Romero, who is being assisted by PNSA secretary-general Nil Gamboa, Eric Arejola, Marcia Cleofas and national team coach Bartolome Teyab.