Competing at the highest level of IPSC is always an incredible experience, but taking the journey to Europe brings a whole new set of challenges, lessons, and unforgettable memories. I spent 3.5 weeks in Europe testing my skills against some of the best shooters in the world, and looking back, it was a trip of a lifetime.

Here is a breakdown of how the journey unfolded—from international travel hurdles and tough lessons on the range to elite training and competing at the European Handgun Championship.

The Journey Begins: 3.5 Weeks in Europe

Traveling across the world with firearms always comes with an added layer of complexity. Flying via Dubai, there was a fair share of travel uncertainty upfront regarding permits, transit rules, and schedules. Thankfully, everything ran smoothly from start to finish, setting a great tone for the weeks ahead.

Lessons Learned at My First Extreme Euro Open

My first match of the trip was the iconic Extreme Euro Open. The stages were challenging, fast, and unforgiving.

Unfortunately, my run came to an early end on the second day when I was disqualified due to muzzle direction while reloading.

While a DQ is never the outcome any competitor wants, it served as a huge lesson learned. Safety rules in IPSC are absolute, and every setback is an opportunity to refine technique under match pressure. Despite the DQ, I kept my head up, had an absolute blast watching the rest of the match, and made incredible new friends from all over Europe.

High-Intensity Prep: Training with Kahlil Viray Shooting Academy

Before heading into the main event in Hungary, I had the incredible opportunity to train with Kahlil Viray from the Kahlil Viray Shooting Academy for three intense days.Working with Kahlil allowed me to reset after the Extreme Euro Open, fine-tune my stage movement, and build confidence ahead of the European Handgun Championship. A huge thank you to Kahlil and the team for their dedication, effort, and high-level instruction—the insights gained over those three days were invaluable.

One Week in Hungary: The European Handgun Championship (EHC)

Next up was one week in Hungary for the prestigious European Handgun Championship (EHC). I was one of only three Australians competing at the entire match, and I had the privilege of being the sole Australian carrying our flag at the Opening Ceremony! Given how far we travel from Down Under, seeing Australians at a European match is a rare sight. The local competitors, officials, and crowd were delighted to have us there, welcoming us with incredible hospitality throughout the event.

One unique aspect of the stages was shooting White Targets and Red Targets, which was a first for me. Navigating these target presentations required sharper visual focus and deliberate target identification. I enjoyed the challenge so much that I’ve already started implementing white and red target drills in our local club matches back home!

Squad Vibes & Classic Division Competition

I was blessed with an awesome squad at EHC, spending the week alongside passionate competitors and making great new friends from Norway and Denmark.

Competing in the Classic Division alongside Europe’s elite was a privilege. The level of speed, precision, and efficiency displayed across the division was inspiring, pushing me to give my best on every single stage.

Exploring Central Europe: Budapest, Vienna, Prague & Lake Balaton

It wasn’t all gunpowder and match tension! In between match days and training sessions, I took full advantage of being in Central Europe to do some sightseeing:

Budapest, Hungary: Exploring the incredible architecture along the Danube.
Vienna, Austria: Soaking in the history, coffee culture, and historic streets.
Prague, Czech Republic: Walking through one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Lake Balaton: Spending downtime relaxing near Lake Balaton, located right by the EHC range.

Final Thoughts: Highly Recommended!

Looking back on 3.5 weeks of travel, intense competition, hard-earned lessons, and international camaraderie, I couldn’t be more grateful for the experience.

If you ever have the opportunity to make the trip to Europe for major IPSC competitions like the Extreme Euro Open or EHC, I would highly recommend going! The growth you experience as a shooter—and the friendships you make along the way—are worth every bit of the effort.