 An illustration of the 1861 competition | |
| Sport | Shooting |
|---|---|
| Competition | Imperial Meeting |
| Discipline | Fullbore target rifle |
| Location | Bisley Camp |
| Country |  United Kingdom |
| Presented by | National Rifle Association |
| History | |
| First award | 1860 |
| Editions | 154 |
| First winner | Edward CR Ross |
| Most wins |
|
| Most recent | DC Luckman |
The Sovereign's Prize, referred to as the Queen's Prize or the King's Prize depending on the incumbent British monarch, is the oldest fullbore target rifle shooting competition and is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious prizes in the sport globally.[1] Founded in 1860, it was originally held annually on Wimbledon Common in London. The competition later moved to the purpose-built Bisley Camp where it is still held today.
The winner receives a gold medal and £250. Strictly, the "Queen's Prize" refers to the £250 cash prize, which was originally the personal gift of Queen Victoria. The gold medal is awarded by the Association.[2] As of 2024, the Prize has been contested 155 times, breaking only for the World Wars. Although contested on an open basis, it has only been won three times by women (in 1930, 2000 and 2022). Six people have won it three times.
- ^ "H.M. The Queen's Prize". GB Rifle Team. Archived from the original on 12 January 2023. Retrieved 12 January 2023.
- ^ "Aris's Birmingham Gazette, etc. 07 May 1860, page 1". Aris's Birmingham Gazette. 7 May 1860. p. 1.
The Queen's prize of 250l., together with the gold medal of the Association, will be shot for by candidates successful in other trials, the ranges being 800, 900 and 1000 yards.