15 Junior Canadian Rangers from all three territories are representing Canada’s Arctic at the National Marksmanship Championship in Edmonton, Alta this week.
The competition provides Junior Rangers with the opportunity to test their shooting skills over three days against members from across the country.
50 Junior Canadian Rangers aged 12 to 18 will be participating, representing every province and territory except for New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia.
The 15 members representing Canada’s North hail from the communities of Ulukhaktok, NWT, Carcross, Yukon and Taloyoak, Nunavut.
“The marksmanship program is an important part of the Junior Canadian Ranger program that teaches self-discipline and builds confidence,” said Capt. Stephen Watton.
“It also allows Rangers to participate in a recreational sport that is fun for members across the country. This is sort of the final stage of a year-long program of training for Junior Canadian Rangers across Canada.”
That means Junior Rangers participating in this year’s championship will have already successfully competed in regional, provincial and territorial competitions.
According to the Department of National Defence, all Junior Canadian Rangers receive training in the safe handling and firing of the Daisy 853C Air Rifle prior to competition.
“The importance of safety is stressed at all times and Junior Canadian Rangers are not permitted to use the air rifles until they have demonstrated sufficient awareness of the safety procedures.”
The three-day championship began Tuesday and runs until Thursday.
