Your First Match Starts Here: What It’s Like to Compete at the Apex Rocky Mountain Challenge
If you’ve ever considered trying your hand at a precision rifle match but felt unsure where to start, the Apex Rocky Mountain Challenge is the opportunity you’re looking for.
In 2024, first-time competitor Jared Ross stepped onto the firing line at the Apex Rocky Mountain Challenge not knowing what to expect. What he found was not only a competitive environment but a welcoming community, breathtaking views, and the kind of experience that makes you want to come back year after year.
“I had been considering trying out PRS for about a year when the Apex Rocky Mountain Challenge was announced. Being close to home, it gave the perfect opportunity to try it out while supporting a local company.
As a first-time competitor, I felt both nervous and excited. Not knowing any of the competitors I was in the squad with – or their level of skill- and knowing I was green to the sport, I was pleasantly surprised by the welcome I received and the support throughout the match.”
Josh Monaghan made the trip up from Texas for the match, joining Ross as a first time competitor. “It was a feeling of both excitement and nerves,” he said, “the atmosphere was professional, but also very welcoming and friendly.”
That feeling of being welcomed isn’t an accident. It’s something the organizers and returning competitors work hard to foster—because they know what it’s like to be new. Whether it’s helping out with gear, walking through stage plans, or just cheering each other on, the community surrounding this event is what sets it apart.
“It didn’t take long to feel like I belonged. I had questions, I made mistakes, and people were there to help. I learned more in that one weekend than I had in months of solo training.”
Match Director and Apex Optics President mirrored the importance of the Rocky Mountain Challenge being an event for all. “For me, running this match is about more than just stages and scores, it’s about hosting an event where new shooters feel welcome and returning competitors are challenged but also feel well taken care of. Whether it’s your first match or your fiftieth, I want everyone to walk away feeling like they belong here and had an incredible match weekend.”
This year’s match kicks off Friday (July 11) afternoon with a train-up day, giving shooters the chance to test gear, confirm zeroes, and get comfortable with the terrain – followed by a welcome event at the match site for competitors to connect ahead of the competition. From there, it’s two full days of competition, capped off with a Saturday night social event and Sunday’s awards banquet.
“The entire weekend I felt a great amount of support from the entire group whether it was the RO’s and organizers, or my fellow shooters,” said Ross. “Never did a question go unanswered when asked and there was plenty of check-in from the RO’s and Shooters in my squad.” – Jared Ross
“I gained a variety of skills through attending the Apex Rocky Mountain Challenge that apply to rifle shooting in general. I highly recommend going to the match, regardless of your experience level; as soon as other competitors know it’s your first match, they jump at the opportunity to help you out.” – Josh Monaghan
If you’ve been thinking about trying a match but worry you won’t fit in or that you’re not ready—you are. The Apex Rocky Mountain Challenge was built to challenge competitors, but also to include them. When asked if he had one piece of advice for someone who may be on the fence about signing up for their first PRS match – especially the Apex Rocky Mountain Challenge, he said “Jump in, there is no better time than now to try it out. I didn’t shoot the best when I went out, but I shot, and that’s the first step!”
Interested in joining us for 2025?
Registration is open, and spots are filling fast. Whether you’re brand new or looking to grow in the sport, the Apex Rocky Mountain Challenge is your chance to be part of something bigger. Have questions?! Don’t hesitate to reach out – we can’t wait to see you in July.
