Tom sets sights on success at world clay championships
Posted by: electime 3rd September 2025
An electricity worker from Kent is competing among the world’s best Helice clay shooting champions this week, at the global championship in Italy.
UK Power Networks cable jointer Tom Gridley, 41, from Sutton-at-Hone, near Dartford, qualified for the national team at the 35th World FITASC Championship taking place in Ghedi from September 5 to 7.
Gridley qualified during a selection event at Invicta Gun Club. After a fiercely competitive round left multiple shooters tied for team places, Gridley was called into a dramatic shoot-off to determine who would represent Great Britain.
Maintaining composure amid the pressure, Gridley delivered a decisive performance to clinch his spot.
Gridley said: “Overall, I’m really happy with the performance because the work I’m doing is starting to pay off. I focused on my breathing, kept my head clear, and got the result I’d worked for.
“I’m happy about it, but I know there’s still work to do. Taking part in the Grand Prix of Italy the day before the world championships will help me get a feel for the conditions and see where I stand.”
Gridley has built a respected reputation in competitive shooting. He is known for his focused approach, often preferring solitude before high-stakes shoot-offs to maintain mental clarity. His journey to elite-level competition has involved years of dedication, fine-tuning technique and the psychological side of the sport.
FITASC Helice is an international discipline overseen by the governing body FITASC, known for its variety and difficulty and requiring ultra-fast reflexes. The FITASC World Championship for Helice sees top shooters from across the globe compete for individual and team titles. Gridley’s participation places him among the select few representing Great Britain on the international stage.
He said: “What I love about shooting is the discipline of it, and the way it defines me as a person. A lot of my life lessons, discipline at work and planning, stem from shooting and having that mindset. It has also given me ability to travel all over the world with my sport to Finland, Cyprus, America, Brazil and meet lovely people, off the beaten track.
“I’m hoping for a good performance in the team event. I’d like to add the world team event to my titles. The ultimate would be to get a singles event. That’s down to me, my head, and a little bit of luck from the gods of Helice shooting. It’s luck and creating the luck. The harder you work, the luckier you get.”
Gridley’s biggest fan is his dad, who has followed him to competitions since he started clay shooting at 15. He’s unable to attend the championships so will follow his son’s progress with pride from home.
