Celebrating Independence Day 2021

July 4th is Independence Day in the US.

It is also when we celebrate the anniversary of Harvey John, launched all the way back in 2004.

The HJ tradition is to have a morning of competitive activity, followed by fantastic food (and drinks). This year was no exception…

ID21 Part One – Hitting the target!

Our Independence Day celebrations kicked off on Thursday 1st July with Assault Rifles at QLeisure.

Managing Director, David Waddell, came along sporting his winners T-shirt from the last Independence Day shooting event – Clay Pigeon Shooting in 2019. Could he fend off the competition in Assault Rifle shooting?

It soon became apparent that he would have a battle on his hand on the 50m range when HJ Office Administrator Alex Louise (Lexi) recorded a very impressive first-round score of 18 hits from 20 shots.

With a seemingly unassailable lead at the halfway point, surely Lexi would walk away as the 2021 champion?

Cue a perfect 20 out 20 second round shoot from Josh Rapaport. Immediately the accusations flew that he had ‘done this before’. His denials were accepted but he did concede that he spends far too much time gaming at home!

So with scores of 36/40, Josh and Lexi were declared joint winners.

ID21 Part Two – Life in the fast lane!

The contest really kicked off on the 800-metre Karting track with several drivers confidently predicting they would be the fastest.

With some ‘competitive’ racing (mostly just inside the rules), a few bumps and some spectacular spins, the 30-minute was closely fought – by most. Hayley Rose and Ian Trevett must have been unaware it was actually a race.

The deserved victor with a fine display of kart handling was Alex Baxter Smith. He was joined on the podium by David Waddell (2nd) and Josh Rapaport (3rd).

With a first in shooting and a third in karting, Josh took the coveted ID21 trophy.

ID21 Part Three – good food and good company!

The competing gave way to socialising and camaraderie as we adjourned to a sunny Brighton seafront for food and drinks at the excellent Shelter Hall.

The original Shelter Hall was built in the 1880s as part of the historic Kings Road Arches. It has been completely rebuilt and extended to create one of Brighton’s newest foodie destinations.

The Hall is now home to seven unique kitchens led by renowned Sussex chefs, and diners can choose from any of the menus. The difficulty is choosing what to eat!

It was amazing to be out together again (last year had to be cancelled due to Covid), and it was also lovely to see Associate Director Georgina Trudgill who has been on maternity leave.

A perfect way to spend a summer’s day!

And here’s to a successful 18th year at Harvey John.

If you would like to partake in all the fun of our next independence day, you should consider joining us.