MUSCAT: Oman Shooting Club (OSC) will hold its 2026 Women’s Shooting Championship from October 11 to 24, featuring pistol and rifle competitions as part of its annual programme to expand women’s participation in the sport.
Details were announced at a press conference at the club on Tuesday, with organisers outlining the competition format, prizes and safety arrangements. The event is supported by the Oman Automobile Association (OAA).
Mohammed al Maamari, Acting Director-General of OSC, said participation was expected to reach around 500 in each discipline. He encouraged women to take part, whether trying shooting for the first time or seeking to improve their skills.
Al Maamari said the competition period had been extended in response to requests from participants, allowing one week for each discipline. The championship will begin with the pistol event, followed by the rifle competition.
Scheduled to coincide with Omani Women’s Day on October 17, the championship aims to recognise women’s contributions and strengthen their involvement in sport. Al Maamari highlighted the Royal care accorded to Omani women and their leading role across society.
He said the club’s specialised facilities provided an opportunity to introduce more women to shooting and help them develop their abilities. Organisers hope the championship will identify emerging talent and encourage participants to continue practising.
The event also seeks to build confidence and develop the concentration, precision, discipline, decision-making and responsibility associated with shooting, while offering opportunities for beginners and experienced competitors.
Al Maamari stressed that prize values and the number of winning places had been clearly announced to ensure transparency and help participants understand the competition.
PRIZE MONEY
In each discipline, the winner will receive RO 500, the runner-up RO 300 and the third-placed competitor RO 200, bringing the combined cash prize fund to RO 2,000. Medals will be awarded to the top three, with a shield for each winner.
The closing ceremony will also feature prize draws, gifts and vouchers for attendees. Al Maamari thanked the OAA for supporting the club’s activities and development of the sport.
Club coach Afraa al Shammakhi explained that the pistol competition would be contested from a standing position using both hands, at a distance of 15 metres. Each participant will fire seven shots: two sighting shots and five scoring shots.
The rifle competition will take place over 40 metres, with the same allocation of two sighting shots and five scoring shots. The maximum rifle score is 50 points, with results calculated and announced at the end of each competition day.
Organisers said safety would remain a priority, with participants required to follow firearm-handling instructions and range procedures under the direct supervision of coaches and specialists. The club will also provide guidance and ensure an environment that respects participants’ privacy.
Farah al Balushi said the championship welcomed women from civilian and military sectors, highlighting the importance of providing opportunities for women to demonstrate their abilities and gain sporting experience.
The club also aims to strengthen its position as a sporting and tourism destination for citizens, residents and visitors, combining shooting with recreation.
Winners will be honoured at the club on October 28 at 7 pm. Interested participants are encouraged to follow its official channels for registration details and competition requirements.
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