The Martha’s Vineyard Rod and Gun Club held its annual fall deer shoot Sunday in warm temperatures that made the day feel more like a prelude to summer than winter. Brian Cioffi of Chilmark bested the competition to take the “Top Gun” crown.
Mr. Cioffi, an avid hunter and Chilmark police chief, had the highest combined score of 12 shooters in the three competitive events: standing deer target and bull’s-eye target at 60 yards, and the over the shoulder trap shoot.
Matt Cromwell, Mike Ferry, and Brian Welch tied for second place, while Ladi Novratel fired the highest individual score of 20 in the standing deer category.
On Sunday, December 14,the club will hold the annual Black Powder Shoot in anticipation of the muzzleloader season which begins Monday, December 15.
This event is also open to the public. Both traditional and modern firearms may be used. Prizes will be awarded for both primitive and modern black powder firearms. The club will be also award a plaque in memory of Bill Nicholson for the outstanding black powder participant. This award was established and sponsored by Bill’s longtime friend Eddie Belisle. Refreshments will also be made available for competitors and viewers throughout the day, from 10 am to 2:30 pm.