The 2024 Rifle World Shoot III, held in Oulu, Finland, from July 30th to August 10th, was a remarkable event for Team USA, showcasing their exceptional talent and dedication in the sport of practical shooting. This year’s competition, which featured 735 competitors, was the third Rifle World Shoot, following the inaugural event in Moscow, Russia, in 2017, and the second in Kariskoga, Sweden, in 2019. The event has quickly become one of the most prestigious in the IPSC calendar.
Semi Auto Open Division
In a thrilling display of skill, Kyle Litzie clinched the Gold medal in the Semi Auto Open division, a significant achievement that underscores the strength of the USA team. Kyle’s victory was particularly impressive as he improved from his 8th place finish in the 2019 championship. He was joined in the top 10 by fellow Americans Daniel Horner (5th), AJ Anthony (6th), Brian Nelson (7th), and Varick Beise (8th), showcasing the depth of talent in the USA squad.
The team competition saw the USA taking Gold in the Semi Auto Open Team event, with the team comprising Kyle Litzie, Daniel Horner, AJ Anthony, and Joe Farewell. The USA team outperformed strong competitors from Norway and Finland, who took Silver and Bronze respectively.
In the Ladies’ Semi Auto Open division, Lena Miculek continued her legacy by winning Gold, adding to her previous Gold in 2017 and Silver in 2019. Justine Williams secured Silver, and other strong performances included Jalise Williams (6th), Lynda Turnbull (8th), Becky Yackley (9th), and Lanny Barnes (10th). The USA Ladies’ team, featuring Miculek, Williams, Yackley, and Barnes, also took home Gold, underscoring the strength and depth of female competitors in the USA.
The Super Senior category saw the USA dominate once again, with Todd Jarrett winning Gold and Jerry Miculek taking Silver. The USA Super Senior Team, which included Todd Jarrett, Jerry Miculek, Leighton Oosthuisen, and William Paolino, won the Gold medal in the team competition, continuing the USA’s tradition of excellence in this category.
Semi Auto Standard Division
In the Semi Auto Standard division, the USA Team achieved a commendable Silver medal, with standout performances from Joseph Easter (6th), Aaron Hayes (11th), and Sean Yackley (15th). The competition was fierce, with Finland taking Gold and Norway securing Bronze. The USA Ladies’ Semi Auto Standard team also earned Silver, led by Reanna Kadic, Candice Horner, Ashlynne Thomas, and Hannah Nichols.
Overall Performance
The 2024 Rifle World Shoot III, featuring 735 competitors, was a testament to the global appeal and competitiveness of practical shooting. The USA’s achievements across multiple divisions and categories demonstrate the skill, dedication, and sportsmanship of American shooters on the world stage.
As the 2024 Rifle World Shoot III concludes, the USPSA community celebrates these remarkable accomplishments and looks forward to continuing this legacy in future international competitions.
Congratulations to all the athletes who represented the USA with distinction, and thank you for making your nation proud.