Neils Christensen
Northern News Services

Resolute Bay (Apr 05/04) - Norman Nungaq is not an average teenager.

This 17-year-old from Resolute Bay has earned the bragging rights of being among the top marksmen in the North.

And he's not afraid to tell everyone he meets.

"When people talk to me, I joke with them and tell them they are meeting the top shot," he said.

He was also an honoured guest at a community feast held on Feb. 13.

Nungaq admits all the attention feels a little weird.

"I have people coming up to me saying how proud they are and it's a little uncomfortable, but it also makes me feel proud."

Nungaq is a Canadian Junior Ranger in Resolute Bay and recently earned his new title at a shooting competition in Yellowknife.

He was one of 29 Junior Rangers, representing communities from around the North.

Nungaq admitted he was a little nervous when he arrived in Yellowknife.

"I tried to hide it," he said. "I was up against Rangers from all over."

Before he could shoot in Yellowknife, Nungaq first fought to represent his hometown squad.

During that November competition, Nungaq came on top.

Ever since then, the Grade 11 student has been training and preparing for the event.

"I wanted to build some strength in my arms, so I could shoot better," he said.

"I was getting pretty excited as the months passed."

The competition

This was Nungaq's first time competing in the air rifle championships.

He spent the entire day before the start of the event at the indoor range sighting his rifle.

"I wanted to make sure that everything was working properly and I was prepared for the competition," he said.

Before finishing for the day, Nungaq received some very important advice from his chaperon, Debra Iqaluk.

"She told me to relax before Sunday came," he said.

The competition consisted of several events, including timed and precision shooting.

Out a possible 135 points Nungaq earned 123.

On his groupings, he shot a perfect 10 out of 10 score.

"I usually hold my breath just before I shoot," he said.

"I don't remember ever breathing throughout the competition."

Practice makes

perfect

Nungaq first picked up a rifle when he was only seven years old.

Ever since then, he tries to make time at least once a week to go out on the land to hunt.

His other interests in life have also helped with his training. When not practising with the Rangers, Nungaq practises his music. He can play the flute and guitar.

"Playing music helps me stay focused. It's relaxing and fun," he said.

With this year's competition now over, Nungaq is already looking forward to next year were he will hopefully defend his title.

"I have to quit the Junior Rangers when I turn 19. So I can only win two more times."

He hopes to then join the Canadian Rangers.