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Jared Hoffman, an employee of the Diamond K Ranch, contacted Barbara Garney (Sec'y of TSCA) and inquired about having a few registered shoots
in 2005. Once the information was given about joining the NSCA and
discussing the 200 mile rule, Jared invited Barbara, Vance Barnes (Pres.
of TSCA), Johnny Meitzen (a familiar name to Jared Hoffman), and myself
(someone who could get the word out) so he could "show off" the
Ranch.
Never trust a 22 year old
fresh from Illinois to give directions! Ha..... We got close, but
you know men, they don't like to ask for directions as quickly as us
women. After meandering for just a
few extra miles, we finally called the ranch and got the one turn
that somehow was left out in our directions. Onward bound, down a
country road, past the little heard of town Sisterdale, we finally came
upon the gates of the Diamond K Ranch.
Using the intercom to have the electric
gates open for us, we drove onto the grounds. What we entered was a
bit of heaven. It wasn't five
seconds later that I had to say, "stop the car" to take some pictures.
Back in the car, a short distance down the road, 2 large fallow deer ran
right in front of us across our path. That alone was worth the trip!
Jared met us a short distance ahead where he lead us to the main house.
Everything is perfectly groomed. This is a manicured forest with
exotic animal sightings in every direction. The guest houses are all
decorated in that southwestern rugged, yet elegant, style. Wood,
earth tones, hides, rugs, ironworks, and leather are the decor.
We called the Ranch during our drive up, "Where would you suggest we grab
some lunch"? We were then graciously offered lunch on the grounds.
We traveled a short distance from the Main house to a smaller guest house,
complete with an upstairs game room. It was here that we experienced
the hospitality and delicious "grub" one can expect from the Diamond K.
Sitting in a cozy room, served by pleasant employees, we devoured a delicious meal.
After lunch we were given a tour of the various clay targets activities
available. First to the wobble trap field which also had a ZZ Bird
setup. We all took turns shooting trap and ZZ's. We may have
missed a few more than normal due to the beautiful view in front of us.
It was hard not to gaze out over the lush grounds and feel relaxed.
"Puuuuuuuuuuull"..... We passed the Flurry setup and
Jared said we'd save this for last. Jared pulled some targets so
we'd get an idea of what was to come. Lots of high flying incomers.
Easy to hit, but as anyone knows who's played this game, strategy is the
ticket when four people are going after four or more targets in the air at
the same time.
Onward to the various sporting clays stations.
The course is set up as a walking course, beautifully maintained and
terraced, as opposed to having stairs, over the rolling terrain.
Many of the areas could be accepting of vehicles, but some minor changes
would need to be accomplished to have an average sized sporting clays
shoot. It would be somewhat difficult even with a push cart for some
the way it is now. Certainly not something that couldn't be resolved
with just a little planning. Each station has its own
charm. One in particular is set up in a "cul-de-sac" style with a
double wobble trap set up under your feet, along with other traps offering
incomers and crossers. Lots of flexibility available on this course.
After shooting many of the stations, we had to call it quits. We
had, after all, a long drive back. The Flurry will have to wait
until another day. I hope Diamond K is able to have one
or two shoots per year so people can see what their grounds have to offer.
Each club or ranch we visit when shooting sporting clays seems to have its
own flavor and style. Some are more casual, some are more
regimented, some are "countrified", some are "citified", all are
fun. Whatever the flavor Diamond K creates, I'm sure it will be
first class all the way.
Thank you for the sneak preview, Diamond K. I
look forward to your first shoot.
Diamond K Ranch
Sisterdale, Texas
(North of San Antonio)
210/824-4546
website
Take I-10 West to Boerne, Texas. Exit
Hwy 87 and proceed on Main St. through the town until you come to FM 1376.
Turn right on the road to Sisterdale. After you pass Sisterdale, go
1.3 mi. You'll see a Diamond K Ranch sign where you'll turn right onto
Sisterdale/Lindendale Rd. Follow the signs to the Ranch. |
