National Trophy Pistol Matches to Commence in July at Camp Perry

CAMP PERRY, Ohio - Spectators and competitors are invited to witness the excitement and fierce competition at the National Trophy Pistol Matches, being fired on July 13, 2014 at Camp Perry. A total of 24 National Trophies are earned by talented teams and individuals each year in such highly regarded events as the President's Pistol Match, National Trophy Individual Match and the National Trophy Team Match.

The President's Pistol Match was first fired in 1981 and has become one of the most prestigious events of the National Matches. Winners have traditionally received letters of congratulations from the President of the United States, giving the event its distinct name. The Top 100 competitors in the match are deemed the "President's Hundred" and awarded genuine President's Pistol medallions and certificates.

The National Trophy Individual (NTI) Pistol Match began at the second National Matches in 1904. Each year, the overall winner receives his or her name engraved on the General Custer Trophy - on permanent display at Camp Perry. Competitors follow a Course of Fire at distances of 50 and 25 yards. The event is also an Excellence-in-Competition (EIC) match, where participants can earn credit points towards their Distinguished Badges - a rare and monumental feat.

The National Trophy Team (NTT) Pistol Match made its debut in 1920. In this event, four-person teams, with at least one "new shooter," go head-to-head to earn their place on the coveted Gold Cup team trophy. Additionally, individual awards are given to the best Civilian, Reserve, Law Enforcement and U.S. Coast Guard teams. The NTT is also an EIC match, where the best shooters in the world compete for the overall glory of being named team champions.

For the younger pistol enthusiasts, junior matches are also held to begin the young shooters' journey towards becoming involved with these prominent events. Though following the same course of fire as the adult competitors, juniors must use a .22 caliber pistol for each match.

For more information on all of the National Trophy Pistol Matches, as well as registration forms, visit http://www.thecmp.org/NM/Pistol.htm.