The Kaniva wheat grower took out the shoot at the Lake Gillear rifle range on Sunday.

Despite winning the epic event, involving 10-shot matches over 300, 500, 600, 700, 800 and 900 yards, Rich played down the victory.

"It was just a day's work," he quipped yesterday.

"It was good fun."

The 2009 New Zealand Ballinger Belt rifle championship winner used the 25th anniversary of the South West District Rifle Association (SWDRA) marathon for a weekend away with wife Joylene, who helped with the event's catering.

He has competed at the Allansford event several times, but 2010 was his best result. Rich was disappointed his forte event - 1000 yards - was axed on Saturday.

Severe winds forced organisers to cancel the long range shoot.

"I was very disappointed I didn't get to shoot the 1000 yards - that's my speciality.

On a good day my competitors and I could get 10 shots on a target the size of a dinner plate from 1000 yards.

"I understand why it was cancelled though. It was just too dangerous for the people setting the targets."

Rich has represented Australia twice in New Mexico and New Zealand. He came runner-up in the American Bald Eagle Championship in 2008.

"That was a real buzz. The person who beat me was an American marine army marksman who got paid to shoot as a living."

Rich is set to journey overseas again this year. He will compete in the English championship in July.

"I'll be contesting it as an individual. My wife will come along too."

The Jim Cue Memorial is the only marathon event in Australia. As part of the anniversary celebrations, all past winners were invited to return for a champion shoot.

Warrnambool shooter Graham Dyson was awarded SWDRA life membership for his 35 years of service to the group.

Warracknabeal teenager Stephen Nitschke took out the C grade competition. The 15-year-old only began the sport six months ago.

"But I've pretty much been shooting for most of my life," he said.

"I live on a beef and crop farm. Basically the Warracknabeal (rifle) club had a come and try day and I enjoyed it and went from there."

Stephen competed in the 2009 state championships, where he finished fourth.