Our Beginnings

WHFTA (World Hunter Field Target Association) was formed in 2009 to create an international platform and event for HFT shooters to compete in. This annual event is shot to UKAHFT rules and is attended by the world's finest HFT shooters.

WHFTA's mission is to promote the safe and responsible use of air guns by organising the world's premier HFT shooting event. This is undertaken with assistance from both the airgun community and the shooting industry, including support from the world's leading manufacturers.

THE WHFTA Team

WHFTA is a huge team effort, that doesn't just refer to the individuals below. The 'team' extends to the wider HFT community. From all the Competitors, the manufacturers, the advisors, and the immense band of unsung heroes they all form part of our team. We are incredibly; proud, honoured and humbled by our immense HFT community. 

The hours of dedication and love from so many top human beings that go into making WHFTA what it is, is truly humbling. From us at WHFTA, thank you to all of you that make this all possible!

Pete "Sparky" Sparkes

Pete is one of the founding officials of the HFT World Championships and Association. He started the WHFTA in 2009 to offer a more prestigious platform for the world's elite HFT shooters to compete, which, alongside a number of officials on the way, has now become the World's premiere HFT event. Sparky now relies on his fantastic wife to do all the work while he continues to take the glory, although this is little reward since Pete has completely lost the small amount of talent he once had for HFT and now uses organising as a front. 

Charles Peal

Charles has recently come on board in 2016 to help Pete with the scores, stats and organising of the WHFTA. His input has added a real fluidity to the management of the day, especially with his ability to turn the complex results into a simplified idiots guide which Pete can then understand. Alongside this Charles represents the Air Arms shooting team both nationally and internationally.

Steve O'Mara

After several years gaining knowledge & experience in the marshalling of UKAHFT events, Steve joined the WHFTA team as Chief Marshal in 2022. Steve’s knowledge of WHFTA rules is second to none & with him being one of the HFT course setters at one of UK's premier airgun clubs; Redfearn FTC he understands what is expected for a high standard WHFTA course. In the tradition of previous Chief Marshals, he also has a big mouth!

Kieran Turner

Kieran has been involved with the WHFTA since the start when he became the inaugural WHFTA World Champion with a yet to be equalled 120ex120 (double clear) over the two days. Kieran continues to be a competitive shooter and is an integral part of the WHFTA machine, dealing with all social media along with his WHFTA partner in crime Thomas Bristow. He also acts as liaison to WHFTA sponsors and provides overall event co-ordination.

Jane Sparkes

The rock to Pete who keeps him in line, Jane is the great woman behind the great man.... ummm Pete? Managing things behind the scenes but regularly found in the booking in tent welcoming the shooters, Jane plays and integral part in the WHFTA machine.

Matt "Fatty" Furlong

Matty is the integral cog that is turning behind the scenes. All of that unseen and nuanced work that makes things just magically happen.... that's Matty!
A big and hugely likeable member of the HFT community and a huge asset to us here at Team WHFTA. 

Thomas Bristow

Thomas is the youngest member of Team WHFTA and forms part of the social media double act with Kieran. Thomas is an incredible ambassador for our sport and despite his young age he has incredibly steady head on his shoulders. A keen photographer and natural writer Thomas is also a reputable contributor to the hugely popular Airgun Shooter magazine. 

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