James Galea Jr Clinches Steve Azzopardi Trophy at Qormi Clay Shooting Club

James Galea Jr emerged victorious in the prestigious Steve Azzopardi Trophy held at the Qormi Clay Shooting Club, after a thrilling contest among Malta’s top clay shooters.

Galea Jr triumphed in the final round after an exciting shoot-off, securing the trophy ahead of Emanuel Bugeja, who finished second, and Ryan Bugeja, who placed third overall.

The competition format saw participants shoot at 50 qualifying targets, followed by a 25-target final using single shots. The top six shooters advancing to the final were:

• Abiel Cassar and Ryan Bugeja (43/50),

• Joseph Mallia and Emanuel Bugeja (42/50),

• Alan Abela (41/50),

• James Galea Jr (40/50).

Final Overall Results:

1. James Galea Jr – 22/25 (Shoot-off: +0+1)

2. Emanuel Bugeja – 20/25 (Shoot-off: +0+0+2)

3. Ryan Bugeja – 20/25 (Shoot-off: +0+0+1)

4. Alan Abela – 17/25

5. Abiel Cassar – 16/25

6. Joseph Mallia – 14/25

Class Winners:

• Class A:

  • 1st – Ryan Bugeja (43/50)

  • 2nd – James Galea Jr (40/50)

  • 3rd – Christopher Vella (39/50)

• Class B:

  • 1st – Alan Abela (41/50)

  • 2nd – Luke Cassar (39/50)

• Class C:

  • 1st – Abiel Cassar (43/50)

  • 2nd – Joseph Mallia (42/50)

  • 3rd – Emanuel Bugeja (42/50)

The competition once again highlighted the high standards of local trap shooting, with several tightly contested shoot-offs and excellent performances across all classes.

The next event on the shooting calendar is the MSSF Trap Competition (50/2), scheduled for Sunday, 4 May at the Malta National Shooting Ranges.

Gerald Fenech

Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist