The crack of shotguns and the cheers of camaraderie echoed across the Jamaica Skeet Club in Portmore, St. Catherine, as competitors aimed for more than just targets. They were firing for a cause—helping 18-year-old Tashana Easy regain her sight.
Spearheaded by philanthropist Sean Clacken, in partnership with the Jamaica Skeet Club and a host of generous sponsors, the Charity Sporting Clays Tournament raised a remarkable J$1 million toward Easy’s urgent eye surgery. The funds will contribute to her J$2.8 million medical bill for a corneal transplant and post-operative care.
“This was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together,” Clacken reflected. “We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, the participants, and all those who gave donations to make this event a success.”
Clacken confirmed that, thanks to additional contributions, the full cost of the surgery has now been met, with the procedure scheduled to take place soon.
A battle for bragging rights
While the cause was the day’s true winner, the tournament itself delivered a showcase of marksmanship. Former national shotgun champion Chad Ziadie emerged victorious, hitting 89 out of 100 birds, narrowly edging Bruce DuQuesnay on 88.
In A Class, Ryan Chen claimed the title via “long run” tiebreaker over Bobby Chung, both scoring 86. Former Jamaica Skeet Club President and nine-time national champion Ian Banks took third with 85.
Other class winners included: B Class: Winston Quest – 82; C Class: Stephen McConnell – 85; D Class: Max Williams – 81; E Class: Denzil Dixon – 71; Hunters/ Beginners: Sheldon Carter – 63; Ladies: Alyssa Moo Young – 50; Juniors: David Wong – 84; Sub-Juniors: Blake Cooper – 67.
Corporate champions of charity
Major sponsors Geddes Refrigeration, Hawkeye Security, Dr Glass Limited, Imperial Optical, and the Jamaica Skeet Club led the charge in rallying support. Additional backing came from Loshusan Group, Amzoil, Proforma Marketing, Matt’s Cycle Rack, and Sagicor Bank.
Easy, a hospitality student at the HEART/NSTA Trust, has endured blurred and restricted vision for years. With the community’s unwavering generosity, she now stands on the brink of a life-changing transformation.
