An Cosantóir

www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 5 As the day progressed, teams experienced what many described as all four seasons in a single day. Rain, sunshine, low cloud and shifting winds continuously altered conditions, forcing competitors to adapt their shooting solutions and tactical approaches. The ability to adjust quickly and maintain concentration proved critical. Day Two concluded with Phase Three on Coan Range within the Glen of Imaal. By this stage, fatigue was playing a significant role, yet competitors continued to perform at an exceptionally high standard. Every point became increasingly valuable as teams battled for positions on the leader board. Day Three saw teams move to Ballyvoghan in the Glen of Imaal for Phase Four. While competitors had already endured difficult weather during the opening stages, Day Three introduced perhaps the most challenging factor: strong and persistent winds. Wind remains one of the most difficult variables for any sniper to master, particularly when engaging targets at extended ranges. Throughout the day, competitors made constant calculations and adjustments while reading complex wind conditions across the range. Despite these challenges, shooting quality remained remarkably high. Teams demonstrated the professionalism and adaptability expected of elite military snipers, relying on their training and experience to overcome the demanding conditions. One of the most impressive achievements occurred during Day Three when Private Bolger of 3 Infantry Battalion, competing as a novice sniper, successfully engaged a target at 1,400 metres. The shot ultimately stood as the longest successful engagement recorded during the competition and represented an outstanding accomplishment for a first-time competitor. The fourth and final day began with what many participants regarded as the toughest stand: the "Sniper Race." Designed to test endurance, teamwork and marksmanship under pressure, the stand required sniper pairs to follow a designated route to the finish line while carrying their equipment and managing physical fatigue. Along the route, teams encountered a pistol stand where they received ammunition before moving to the firing line and engaging their target. Once completed, competitors continued to a rifle stand where they again received ammunition before engaging a second target. The stand captured the essence of modern sniper operations, requiring competitors to perform accurately while physically exhausted and under significant time pressure. Following the team events, attention turned to one of the most anticipated traditions: The Longest Shot Competition. The standing record had been established during the previous International Sniper Competition Ireland in 2023 with a successful hit at 1,424 metres. For the 2026 competition, organisers increased the challenge by placing the target at 1,510 metres. Despite several determined attempts from highly skilled competitors, no successful hit was recorded at the extended distance. Nevertheless, Private Bolger's 1,400-metre shot earlier in the competition remained one of the standout moments of the week and highlighted the exceptional standard of shooting demonstrated throughout the event. With all competitive events complete, participants, staff and guests moved to Coolmoney Camp in the Glen of Imaal for the prize-giving parade and competition function. The ceremony recognised the outstanding performances of competitors while celebrating the professionalism and camaraderie displayed throughout the week. The Best International Team award and Overall Competition Winners title were claimed by the United States team of Specialist Angerman and Specialist Zwiers. Their consistent performances across all phases secured them first place overall. Specialist Swiers also received the Sergeant John "Killer" Killeen Memorial Trophy for Best Pistol Shooter. The International Runner-Up Team award was presented to the Belgian pairing of Sergeant LeQueux and Corporal Lsmkin, whose strong performances kept them among the leading teams throughout the competition. In the national category, the Best National Team award and Overall Competition Runner-Up position went to the 27 Infantry Battalion team of Corporal McQuaid and Sergeant Fitzpatrick. Further success for the battalion came through their novice team of Private Sipoteanu and Private McKeown, who secured the Runner-Up National Team award and capped off an outstanding competition for the developing generation of Defence Forces snipers. While the competitors deservedly received recognition for their performances, the event's success depended equally on those working behind the scenes. Special appreciation to Officer Commanding Infantry Weapons Wing, Commandant Lanigan, and Company Sergeant Infantry Weapons Wing, Company Sergeant O'Malley, for their extensive planning and coordination. Special mention goes to Sergeant Cole, who directed the competition and continues dedicating significant time to developing sniper capability throughout the Irish Defence Forces. His commitment, along with the DF sniper community, to maintaining high training standards and excellence was evident throughout the event. The International Sniper Competition Ireland 2026 again demonstrated the professionalism, skill and dedication of military snipers from Ireland and abroad which the IWW hopes to showcase again in 2027. Through four days of challenging competition, difficult weather and elite-level performances, participants showcased the qualities defining the modern military sniper: precision, discipline, resilience and teamwork. As competitors departed the Glen of Imaal, they did so having strengthened international relationships, shared valuable knowledge and upheld the highest standards of military excellence.

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