The Sabie Clay Pigeon Club provided the backdrop for a memorable Women’s Day weekend as Amelda and Faan Greyling each took first place in their respective classes at the CTSASA/FITASC Mpumalanga Sporting Championship on 8 and 9 August.
Double victory at Sabie competition
Amelda Greyling secured the top spot in the ladies’ class after a consistent performance across the event, while her husband, Faan, finished first in his class with a score of 176 out of 200. The championship was run under the auspices of the Clay Target Shooting Association of South Africa (CTSASA) with FITASC sporting formats observed for the Mpumalanga round at the Sabie venue.
Both winners returned to their home with trophies and recognition from the provincial association. The results were noted in the official competition wrap and shared with local community news outlets.
Local sport, local significance
Clay target shooting is a niche but established sport in the province. Events such as the Sabie championship draw shooters from across Mpumalanga and neighbouring provinces, offering competitive opportunities outside metropolitan centres. For Sabie, a town known for its forestry and tourism routes into the Kruger National Park, weekend sporting events provide an additional draw for visitors and a reason for local businesses to benefit from competitor and spectator spending.
For residents involved in outdoor sports, the presence of an active clay pigeon club is also significant for community engagement and skills development. Club facilities are used for training and for hosting events that range from social shoots to formally sanctioned championships under CTSASA regulations.
What happened at the championship
- Event: CTSASA Mpumalanga FITASC Sporting Championship
- Venue: Sabie Clay Pigeon Club
- Dates: 8–9 August (Women’s Day weekend)
- Notable results: Amelda Greyling — first place in ladies’ class; Faan Greyling — first place in his class with 176/200
The competition followed standard clay target formats consistent with FITASC sporting rules, which test shooters’ accuracy and consistency across a series of targets presented from different angles and trajectories. Scores are tallied over several rounds to determine class placings.
Community reaction and participation
The Association of South Africa (CTSASA) acknowledged the achievements of both Amelda and Faan in its communications. Their double victory was described as a highlight of the weekend’s results and was welcomed by fellow shooters at the club.
Local clubs such as Sabie’s play a role in providing safe, regulated environments for the sport. Shooters who participate competitively are required to comply with firearm licensing and safety regulations administered by national authorities. Clubs also often run training and introductory sessions for new members, helping to broaden participation while emphasising safety and responsible firearm ownership.
Continuing calendar and opportunities
Provincial championships are part of a wider competitive calendar that leads to regional and national selection opportunities for top performers. For competitors like the Greylings, continued participation in provincial events can sustain competitive momentum and provide exposure to higher-level tournaments.
For supporters and locals keen to follow the sport, club noticeboards and CTSASA communications typically publish upcoming dates, entry requirements and safety briefings. Those interested in attending or joining should contact the Sabie Clay Pigeon Club or the provincial CTSASA structures for details.
| Competitor | Class | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Amelda Greyling | Ladies’ class | — |
| Faan Greyling | Men’s class | 176/200 |
As the provincial shooting season progresses, Mpumalanga shooters will look to build on performances at Sabie. For the Greylings, the weekend’s wins will be a boost both competitively and personally, marking a rare husband‑and‑wife double at a sanctioned provincial event.
Reports from the championship underline how sport in smaller towns continues to sustain community life and occasional moments of local pride. Events at venues such as Sabie also reinforce the links between outdoor recreation, tourism and rural economies across Mpumalanga.
