Lance Bade Triumphs at 2025 ISSO Senior Open Trap Championship

Amid the sweeping Kansas plains, where wind and precision harmoniously blend, Lance Bade once again etched his name in the annals of shooting sports history. At the 2025 International Shooting Sports of Oregon (ISSO) Senior Open, Bade claimed the prestigious International Trap title, a fitting tribute to a luminary in the world of competitive shooting.

An Unforgettable Gathering in Kansas

Set against the backdrop of RRange in Valley Center, Kansas, the event welcomed a distinguished assembly of trap shooting elites. Hosted by the amiable Raymonds and the Friends of RRange, the gathering was not merely a competition; it was a festive celebration of camaraderie, skill, and passion for trap shooting.

The Senior Open Legacy

Since its inception in 2007, the ISSO Senior Open has symbolized excellence in shooting sports for participants aged 50 and above. Modeled after the International Shooting Sports Federation’s World Cup, this event is cherished by shooters for its robust format that includes shooting 75 targets on Saturday and 50 on Sunday, culminating in thrilling finals.

Memorable Performances and Glorious Wins

Winds aside, the event unfolded with superb precision, witnessing enthusiastic participation and a marvelous showcase of talent. The introduction of Euro Targets added a fascinating twist to the competition, with their inclusion being a generous nod from Euro Target USA.

Friday’s blind-draw team event saw high-scoring performances, with Loschen and Pankiewicz achieving an impressive 132x150, leading the charge in a field peppered with former champions and new challengers.

The Road to Victory

As the main event progressed, Steve Loschen and Robert Pankiewicz initially led the pack, but it was Lance Bade’s consistent shooting prowess that prevailed. With grit and finesse, Bade navigated the windy challenges, exhibiting tactical brilliance that led him into the finals.

In a nail-biting finish, as the revered flash targets lit up, Lance Bade emerged victorious against a formidable Loschen, clinching the gold with a remarkable 40x50 against 37x50, a testament to his enduring prowess and Olympian spirit.

A Celebration of Winners

The event crowned many winners, beyond just the podium finishers. High accolades went to shooting stalwarts including Cary Skaggs and Terri Wentzel, whose prowess embodied the spirit of competitive shooting. As we look toward the future, the anticipation for next year’s venue adds an exciting mystery — continuing the rich tradition of the Senior Open.

According to USA Shooting, the 2026 Senior Open promises to be another gathering of legends, fostering the sport’s growth and the community’s enduring camaraderie.

Celebrate the legends and lore of trap shooting; for where there is a target and a shooter, there is a story waiting to unfold.