Eastern Cape Open - Clay Target AShooting - Graaf Reinett

Everitt Murray in his Heyday

Last day of the Eastern Cape Open at Graaff-Reinet.
Some shooters are on edge trying get get scores to qualify for National teams while the others are quite relaxed.

I tried to get more information about Everitt Murray because it is essential to keep the history of Clay Target Shooting alive. The scores that he shot in 1966 are phenomenal and very few people now days shoot these scores. I sure hope that in fifty years time the new comers to the sport care for it as passionately as he does.

Richard was chuffed with his score today. Much better than yesterday. Well done. Looks like you are on the right path again.

Everett's Score in 1966

Now for some grumbling.

We set off after the shoot to Nieu-Bethesda and the infamous Owl House.

A short drive of 45 minutes through beautiful
mountain scenery we follow the sign posts to Nieu-Bethesda. I googled about the Owl House and couldn't wait to see this bit of history of Helen Martins and her quirky ways.

The Best of Nieu-Bethesda

What a disappointment.

Virtually all the houses, no matter how dilapidated, is either a B & B or a coffee shop but 99% of them are closed. The Owl House which is so dusty and dirty you can't see through the windows is closed and should you want to see inside, which is only a curio shop, has a R50 entrance fee but you have to search for someone to give your money to.

I have never been to a one horse town but this town doesn't even have a horse.

Road into Nieu-Bethseda

Not coming back.

Next moan.

Last time we passed through Graaff-Reinet we were so impressed with our accommodation so we returned to the same guest house.

During our four day stay we commented on it not being the same as last time but lately I am very careful to judge too quickly and in any case it did not put us out, we were here for the shooting and it was very convenient.

Pioneer

Today we arrived back and no one had been in to freshen up as usual or put out clean

Pioneer

towels, etc and on enquiring about the problem it was just sorry so and so's car broke down, this one can't be contacted, get the key and take some towels......Excuses.

Not coming back.

Now a high five for Pioneer Restaurant in Graaff-Reinet for a magnificent Karoo Lamb
dinner. From outside it looked like a tiny old house and inside the restaurant had beautiful decor and even a garden area. Lovely way to finish our day.