A sizzling showdown unfolded at the Tru-Juice complex in Bog Walk, St Catherine, on Sunday, May 4, where the 2025 Rangers Gun Club Sporting Clays Classic brought together Jamaica’s sharpest marksmen for a sun-scorched, high-stakes competition — and a father-daughter triumph that turned heads.
Among over 130 competitors battling scorching heat and soaring humidity on the demanding sporting course, the McMaster name rose above the pack — twice. Ray McMaster clinched the overall champion title with an impeccable 95 out of 100, while his daughter, Aliana McMaster, retained her reign as both the Ladies and Junior champion, scoring a commanding 90.
The heat didn’t just test stamina — it defined the course. As competitors navigated the multiple stations, the pressure mounted. But Ray was unshaken, wiping clean his opening station and maintaining his focus throughout. Though modest about his chances early on — with stiff competition still on the course — his smile told a different story when the results came in.
“It’s one thing to shoot well,” Ray said, “but to share this moment with my daughter — that’s what makes it unforgettable. Today wasn’t just about targets. It was about legacy.”
Aliana, who is no stranger to dominating her divisions, showed why she’s a rising force in the sport. Despite a mid-round dip, her consistency and composure pushed her back to the top. Yet for her, it’s never about the scoreboard.
“I don’t chase numbers. I chase joy. Shooting is my space to have fun, and that’s what keeps me improving,” she said. “But seeing Dad take the title too — that’s the kind of memory you carry for a lifetime.”
Other standout performances included a dramatic three-way shoot-off between Gregg Chong, Todd Lazarus, and Ian Banks — all tied at 93 — with Chong edging into second place. In the Hunters category, Krishna Phillips and Ammon Lalwani dueled across three tense shoot-off rounds before Phillips prevailed.
Station 4, dubbed the Bonus Station, turned out to be a tricky trap for most. But it was no match for Christian Sasso and Todd Lazarus, who both hit all four targets — requiring a tiebreaker shoot-off, which Lazarus ultimately won, walking away with a Barbecue grill, Cooler, and Knapsack.
Class winners included:
- B Class: Robin Rickhi (83)
- C Class: Zachary Chong (86)
- D Class: Max Williams (89)
- E Class & Sub-Junior: Rheis McMaster (81)
Notably, several competitors were promoted to higher classes following their performances — another testament to the depth of skill on display.
The event wasn’t just about sport — it had heart. A portion of the proceeds will go toward supporting Food For the Poor, underlining the event’s commitment to community impact.
This year’s shoot was supported by an impressive list of sponsors, with Sterling Asset Management leading as title sponsor. Worthy Park Rum, Stewart’s Auto Sales, and STL Solar contributed as gold sponsors, and Wisynco ensured participants stayed hydrated with Tru-Juice and Wata.
In the end, the 2025 Rangers Gun Club Classic wasn’t just a contest of aim and accuracy — it was a celebration of family, resilience, and a sport that continues to grow with every generation.
