BIDDESTONE marksman Nick Clark say that he has no plans to hang up his rifle just yet after the Indian summer that has inspired him to take aim at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia.

The 54-year-old, who has shot for more than 40 years and remains England’s domestic small-bore and air rifle captain, travelled to this summer’s Games in Glasgow as an assistant manager for England’s successful shooting team, that came home with a whopping 15 medals.

Clark, who is a member of Chippenham Rifle & Pistol Club, admits that he was considering calling time on his top-flight career.

But the Wiltshire veteran’s recent successes have changed his mind.

He won four trophies at last month’s National Championships in Surrey and also representing Great Britain in last year’s Pershing match against the USA at Camp Perry, in Ohio.

Clark has also been motivated by the achievements of 60-year-old England star Michael Gault, who became England’s joint-most successful Commonwealth Games competitor as he won his 18th medal in Glasgow.

“I first started shooting 40 years ago and have competed at the top level for over 20 years. I did have a few thoughts about winding down but then my shooting started to get better,” said Clark.

“I went to Glasgow as an assistant team manager and I was just there to provide support to all of the athletes.

“I don’t think anything could prepare you for what it was like to walk out with the team at the opening ceremony and be applauded by 45,000 people.

“I’ve started to think that I’m going to try and go to the next Commonwealth Games but this time, as an athlete.

“It was inspiring seeing Mick Gault become one of England’s most successful athletes of all-time and he’s 60-odd so if he can do it, surely there’s a chance for the rest of us.”

Clark is set to compete in qualifiers for the British short range championships later this year, as well as shooting for Great Britain the Wakefield Trophy, a postal match which sees marksmen shoot at their home ranges in front of an authorised judge, with scores then compared internationally.

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