Blog Archives - MYSHOOTS

Darren Watkinson: From Service to Sporting Excellence

24/12/2025

For many shooters, the sport begins with curiosity. For Darren Watkinson, it began with service, discipline and a quiet thank-you that turned into a lifelong passion.

Darren’s introduction to shooting came through the Army, where he was invited to help coach the regimental shooting team as recognition for his support. What started as an opportunity soon became something far more significant.

“I found it enjoyable and got hooked on the sport.”

That initial spark quickly developed into commitment. In 2013, Darren undertook his basic and advanced shotgun shooting skills, alongside completing his Safety Officers course. Two years later, he progressed further, qualifying as a referee and completing his training instructor's course—laying the foundations not only for his own competitive journey, but also for supporting others within the sport.

Finding His Discipline
As his experience grew, Darren explored a range of shooting disciplines. That journey of discovery ultimately led him to sporting clays, while still maintaining a strong appreciation for all-around competitions. This breadth of experience has shaped Darren into a versatile and well-rounded shooter, comfortable across formats and always eager to challenge himself.

Life After Service, Momentum in Sport
After an impressive 23½ years in the Army Reserves, Darren retired from service in 2019. With more time to dedicate to shooting, his competitive career gained real momentum.
In 2020, Darren joined the Army Shooting Team as one of just five veterans selected—an achievement in itself and a testament to his consistency and capability. Looking ahead, 2026 will mark his sixth year with the team, with the exciting prospect of travelling to the United States to compete in the World Championships.

Achievements and Recognition
Darren’s dedication has translated into results. His achievements include:
Two third-place overall finishes at the British Open All Round Nottinghamshire Supreme Champion (2020)
Numerous trophies and awards across competitions and disciplines
These results reflect not only talent, but years of disciplined training, learning and progression.

More Than Competition.
While Darren’s competitive record speaks for itself, what truly stands out is his love for the community side of shooting.

“I enjoy the social aspect of shooting, and I have met so many great people doing something I love and enjoy.”

That sense of camaraderie, shared learning, and mutual respect is at the heart of Darren's story—mirroring what makes shooting such a powerful and enduring sport for so many. From military service to national competitions and international ambitions, Darren Watkinson's journey is one of commitment, progression and passion—proof that when opportunity meets dedication, something special can follow.

Business Shooting Club Finland: Where Networking Meets Adventure

18/12/2025

In the world of business, making genuine connections often happens outside the boardroom. Business Shooting Club Finland is a unique networking community that blends professional networking with thrilling outdoor experiences — all centred around the shared interest of shooting sports. Business Shooting Club
Founded in 2020, Business Shooting Club is a space for companies of all sizes and individuals to come together, form meaningful business relationships, and enjoy the excitement of shooting sports in a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. It's not just for seasoned shooters — newcomers are welcome too, with all necessary equipment and guidance provided at club events, making the club accessible to beginners and experienced shooters alike. Business Shooting Club:

What the Club Offers.
At its core, the club is about community, connection, and memorable experiences.
Members pay an annual fee that grants access to seven major club events per year, combining target shooting, themed activities, networking opportunities, and shared meals. These events provide ample time for attendees to connect with peers, explore collaborations, and even showcase products or services to fellow members. Business Shooting Club
Whether you're a solo entrepreneur or part of a multinational company, the club encourages diversity in its membership. The environment is deliberately informal yet focused on fostering strong interpersonal ties — a refreshing alternative to traditional networking formats. Business Shooting Club:

A Growing Community.
Business Shooting Club Finland has quickly grown to include around 150 member companies and communities. Its calendar typically features several upcoming club days — hosted at notable venues like Plevna and Vatula shooting centres — where members can enjoy competitions, camaraderie, and conversation in equal measure. Business Shooting Club Beyond local events, the club also serves as a platform for members to bring clients or partners along, extending the value of membership into real business opportunities. Business Shooting Club

Meet Janne Hokkanen: The Visionary Behind the Club
At the helm of Business Shooting Club Finland is Janne Hokkanen, the CEO of Business Shooting Club Kokkovuori Oy — the company responsible for operating the club's activities. LinkedIn
Janne's leadership is defined by a keen focus on building community, fostering connections, and promoting shooting as both a sport and a social platform for professionals. Although specific biographical details are private, his LinkedIn presence reflects a dynamic professional who is not just managing the club but also expanding its reach and influence. His posts showcase collaboration with members, the integration of new technologies, such as the MYSHOOTS® app, for club engagement, and active involvement in events that bridge business and leisure in creative ways. LinkedIn
Under Janne’s guidance, the club has also embraced international engagement — hosting foreign delegations and forging connections with global partners. These efforts help elevate Business Shooting Club Finland from a national networking hub into a potential international meeting point for business leaders who value authentic connection and shared experiences. LinkedIn

Leadership Style and Vision
Janne’s leadership style appears personable and hands-on. He uses his platform to highlight community achievements, celebrate member milestones, and extend invitations to grow the club’s network. Whether it’s coordinating travel for members to flagship business events or spearheading collaborations at high-profile expos, his approach blends enthusiasm with strategic outreach. LinkedIn

Why It Matters
Business Shooting Club Finland represents a fresh approach to professional networking — one that values relationships built through shared, memorable experiences rather than traditional business breakfasts and conference halls.
Under Janne Hokkanen’s direction, the club continues to cultivate an environment that supports both business growth and personal growth, reminding us that the best connections are often formed when we step outside our comfort zones and embrace something new together.

Elevating the Tradition of British Game Shooting — Hardwick Sporting & Tregoyd Shoot

16/12/2025

For over 70 years, Hardwick Sporting has been a beacon of excellence in the UK game-shooting world. From its roots as a family-run game farm to becoming a leading provider of premium-driven days and bespoke shooting experiences, the business exemplifies passion, heritage and quality sport. Hardwick Sporting+1

At the heart of this legacy lies one of the UK’s most cherished shoots: Tregoyd, nestled amid the dramatic landscapes of South Wales — directly under the Black Mountains and not far from the literary town of Hay-on-Wye. Hardwick Sporting

A Sporting Experience Set Amongst Wales’ Finest Countryside
Tregoyd isn’t just another shoot; it’s a destination. Set across 3,000 acres of varied terrain — from steep grass banks to rocky valleys — it offers both challenge and beauty in equal measure. Whether guests are chasing high, fast parrots or lofty pheasants over ancient woodland rides, the backdrop of the Brecon Beacons enhances every drive. Hardwick Sporting

What makes Tregoyd especially compelling for visiting teams is its blend of sporting rigour with refined hospitality. Days typically begin with coffee and pegging in the comfortable shoot lodge, continue through multiple morning drives, a hearty lunch, and conclude with afternoon tea — all framed by camaraderie and shared passion. Hardwick Sporting

🏅 Tradition Meets Tailored Sporting Under the stewardship of Ben Brown and his expert team, Tregoyd has been curated to appeal to a wide range of skill levels — from those new to driven game shooting to the most accomplished guns seeking challenging, high bird days. Hardwick Sporting

Hardwick Sporting’s philosophy remains deeply rooted in traditional sport and safety, ensuring that every aspect of the day — from preparation and briefing to the final tally — reflects the highest standards. Hardwick Sporting

🏡 Beyond the Shoot — A Complete Experience
For those wishing to extend their visit, Tregoyd isn’t just a day’s sport. The surrounding area offers luxurious accommodation options — including beautiful country houses and boutique hotels — making it ideal for corporate teams or groups seeking a memorable retreat. Hardwick Sporting

This combination of world-class shooting, personalised service, and unforgettable setting makes Tregoyd a standout in the UK's shooting calendar.

📌 Final Thoughts
In an era where bespoke, high-quality experiences are increasingly valued, Hardwick Sporting's Tregoyd Shoot sets a benchmark — blending tradition with modern hospitality and exceptional game shooting. Whether for dedicated shooters, corporate days out, or simply those seeking a unique countryside experience, there’s something truly special about Tregoyd.

Phil Taylor – A Life Built Around the Outdoors, Precision, and Passion

11/12/2025

Few people manage to turn their personal passions into a lifestyle the way Phil Taylor has. As a Brand Ambassador for Outfit International's iconic Härkila Brand he also represents brands such as Zeiss, Norma, Norne Hunt & Beretta groups GMK – Phil lives and breathes the world of hunting, shooting, and performance gear. Whether he's testing a new piece of kit in the field or offering real-world insights to product teams, Phil bridges the gap between high-quality outdoor equipment and the people who rely on it.

A Role Defined by Authenticity
Phil's role as a Brand Ambassador is rooted in authenticity. Manufacturers trust him because he understands what works in harsh conditions, and customers trust him because he speaks from hands-on experience.

A typical week for Phil might include:
• Taking a new Härkila jacket into the countryside to test its waterproofing and breathability or helping retailers with social media or at shows.
• Measuring target clarity while reviewing Zeiss optics, comparing their real-world performance from dawn to dusk.
• Offering feedback on new Norma ammunition, analysing consistency, grouping, and behaviour across different rifles.
• Filming field demonstrations for Norne Hunt, showcasing ethical hunting practices and responsible equipment selection.

Phil isn't just a face for these brands—he's the person who puts their products through the kind of conditions they were designed for.

The Jockeys Valet Chapter
Beyond the hunting world, Phil works with Jockeys Valet, a role that brings him into the dynamic, meticulous environment of professional horse racing. From assisting with riders' kit preparation to ensuring everything from saddles to safety gear is race-ready, Phil's attention to detail shines.

His experience with firearms, clothing systems, and technical gear transitions naturally into this equestrian world—precision, care, and organisation are just as essential in the weighing room as they are on the hill or on shoot day.

Making Time for the Mountains and the Field
Despite a demanding schedule, Phil's spare time is rarely idle. He fills it with the same pursuits that define his professional life:

• Hunting - shotgun or rifle, woodland or open country—Phil's time in the field is not just recreation but a continuation of his connection to nature. He thrives on responsible hunting, wildlife management, and long days tracking through rugged terrain,
• Shooting - Whether clay shooting or honing marksmanship with rifles, Phil's passion for shooting is both a passion and a discipline. It keeps his skills sharp and fuels the technical expertise behind his brand partnerships.
• Skiing - When winter arrives, the mountains call. Phil's skiing trips are as much about the outdoors and adventure as they are about fitness and mental reset. It's no surprise that someone who loves the wilderness on foot also enjoys carving through snow at speed.

Living the Lifestyle He Represents
Phil Taylor's story is one of alignment—between passion and profession, between the brands he represents and the life he chooses to live. He is the kind of brand ambassador who embodies the values of the companies he works with quality, reliability, and a deep respect for the outdoors.

Whether he's out testing gear at first light, organising equipment at the racetrack, or skiing down an Alpine run, Phil's world is built around adventure, precision, and authenticity. And that is precisely what makes his voice so trusted in the communities he serves.

Kentchurch Shoot: Classic Border Country Sport & Premium listing on the MyShoots® app

8/12/2025

Tucked into 5,000 acres of rolling hills, woodland and parkland on the English–Welsh border, Kentchurch Shoot offers everything that makes driven days in the border country so special. With beautifully varied terrain, exceptional bird presentation and a warm, traditional shooting atmosphere, it's no surprise that Kentchurch has become one of Herefordshire's most respected shoots.

Kentchurch Shoot is one of the Premium Club Subscribers on the MyShoots® app. Bringing its renowned shooting experience into the digital age—giving guns instant access to accommodation links, shoot-day information, and seamless organisation for visiting teams.

A Shoot with Real Character Kentchurch is known for its classic mix of partridge and pheasant drives, carefully spread across a landscape that lends itself perfectly to testing birds. Early-season days often highlight dynamic partridge drives, while, as the leaves drop and the woodland opens up, deeper into autumn, the high woodland pheasant drives take centre stage. Some drives consistently attract the highest number of birds in the area, offering a satisfying challenge for experienced guns while still providing variety and enjoyment for mixed teams. Days typically start with 250+ birds, maintaining a strong but sporting level of presentation throughout the season.

Hospitality Rooted in Tradition A shoot day at Kentchurch begins in familiar style: coffee, peg draw and warm introductions at The Bridge Inn, before heading out for the first drive at around 09:30. Lunch is enjoyed back at the inn, creating that relaxed break in the middle of the day that shooting parties cherish, before a final drive or two and a return for tea, thanks and goodbyes.

For more extended visits, guests can stay fully catered at Kentchurch Court, the stunning onsite country house that has welcomed shooting parties for generations. Its timeless atmosphere and grand setting make it a standout choice for teams wanting a complete country experience.

As a Premium Club Shoot on MyShoots®, Kentchurch gives visiting guns quick and convenient access to a hand-picked selection of local accommodation and hospitality venues—all available via in-app links for easy planning:
Kentchurch Court Hotel (Onsite)
The Angel Hotel
The Bear, Crickhowell
The Foyles Hotel
The Castle Hotel
The Old Black Lion
The Green Man Pub
Baskerville House Hotel

Whether you're organising a team weekend or planning a private day, everything you need—from lodging to logistics—is right there in the app.

Easy to Reach Despite its peaceful countryside setting, Kentchurch remains conveniently accessible: just 15 miles from the end of the M50 and around 12 miles from the A40, making travel simple for teams coming from multiple directions.

South West Sporting: The Ultimate Simulated Game Shooting Experience in Exmoor, Devon & Somerset

1/12/2025

Nestled among the rolling hills, dramatic valleys, and heather-cloaked moorland of Exmoor lies one of the South West's best-kept sporting secrets:

South West Sporting, a premier provider of simulated game shooting experiences across Devon and Somerset. For shooting enthusiasts, corporate groups, or newcomers eager to sample the thrill of traditional driven days—without the pressures or prerequisites of live game—simulated shooting offers the perfect blend of challenge, excitement, and countryside charm.

What Is Simulated Game Shooting?
Simulated game shooting recreates the style, pace, and feel of a traditional driven game day using high-quality clay targets instead of live quarry. Carefully designed flushes mimic pheasant, partridge, grouse, and even high Exmoor drives. It's dynamic, fast-paced, and immensely enjoyable—ideal in the off-season or for those who want the sporting experience without the environmental impact. South West Sporting has perfected this craft, delivering days that feel authentic, social, and brilliantly fun.

The Exmoor Advantage. Exmoor is renowned for its dramatic topography and some of the highest pheasant drives in the country. South West Sporting takes full advantage of this natural terrain, crafting simulated drives that feel remarkably lifelike.

Expect:
Deep wooded valleys perfect for high, curling clays
Expansive open moorland offering sweeping, wind-affected targets
Rolling farmland that replicates classic West Country partridge drives Beautiful scenery at every peg With access to private estates in Devon and Somerset, each location offers a unique sporting challenge—and a truly memorable day out.

Why Choose South West Sporting?

1. Authentic, High-Quality Drives The team specialises in realistic, well-planned drives that emulate the region's most iconic shooting locations. Whether you're shooting towering Exmoor "pheasants" or fast, darting "partridge," the variety keeps every flush exciting.

2. For All Levels of Experience South West Sporting caters to: Seasoned guns looking to sharpen skills pre-season Novice shooters seeking a friendly introduction Mixed-ability corporate or stag groups Women's shooting groups Families and social days Professional instruction is available, making it safe, inclusive, and confidence-boosting.

3. Social, Relaxed & Great Value A simulated day typically includes: Multiple driven clay flushes Professional safety briefing Traps operated by trained staff Refreshments and hospitality (depending on package) It's all the enjoyment of a driven game shoot at a fraction of the cost—without the need to buy cartridges by the thousand or secure expensive syndicate membership.

4. Stunning Locations & Flexible Packages Whether you want a half-day warm-up or a full-day event complete with catering, South West Sporting tailors their offerings to your needs. Their access to private estates ensures exclusivity, privacy, and a genuine countryside experience.

Perfect for Corporate Events & Social Groups If you're looking for a team-building activity that mixes fresh air, camaraderie, and fun competition, simulated game shooting hits the mark. The shared experience of a lively flush and post-drive banter brings people together in a way few activities can. Stags, hens, and birthday celebrations also love the format—it's thrilling, memorable, and highly photogenic.

Commitment to Safety & Sustainability
South West Sporting maintains strict safety standards and works closely with landowners to ensure sustainability and environmental respect. With biodegradable clays and a no-live-quarry format, it's a guilt-free sporting adventure suitable for all.

Final Thoughts : South West Sporting offers one of the best simulated game-shooting experiences in the South West. With beautiful Exmoor scenery, expertly crafted drives, and a warm, professional team, their days capture the excitement of traditional shooting in a welcoming, inclusive format. Whether you're honing your skills ahead of the season or looking for an unforgettable countryside day out, South West Sporting delivers authenticity, adrenaline, and genuine West Country hospitality. to edit.

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Credits
TJG Shooting and Country Photography
& Steve Pountain, Louise Farmer,
Aleksej Vankov, Janne Hokkanen, Spenser Tolley,
Phil Taylor, Mark Williams

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