CHANIA, Greece (Aug. 23, 2026) — A U.S. Navy Sailor assigned to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay secured a podium finish at the 2026 Annual Compak Clay Shooting Tournament at the National Shooting Range of Chania, Crete, Greece, Aug. 23, 2026.
Legalman 2nd Class Kevin Birdt placed third overall in a field of more than 43 competitors, marking the first time a U.S. service member stationed at NSA Souda Bay has finished in the top three of the local tournament since the early 2000s, according to a Chania Gun Club board member.
Birdt, who joined the Greek Gun Club SKOLEK upon his arrival to Crete in 2025, was invited and encouraged by local Greek marksmen to compete in the annual event.
"The local club members pushed me to enter and supported me from the minute I stepped onto the range," said Birdt. "Competing alongside some of the best shooters on Crete was an honor, and the camaraderie out there made the competition even more meaningful."
The tournament featured an opening round across five shooting stations totaling 25 targets. Birdt connected on 23 of 25 clay targets, earning a spot in the five-person championship final.
Following a tightly contested final round, Birdt tied for third place. The tie forced a sudden-death elimination shoot-off. After six tense rounds of shot-for-shot target matching, Birdt broke his final clay to take sole possession of third place.
"When we entered the sudden-death round, the focus had to be absolute," Birdt said. "The pressure was high, but the support from the spectators and fellow competitors was incredible. For me, this has been great location and opportunity to sharpen my shooting skills, find a new hobby, and create new friendships with the locals."
The tournament also highlighted the enduring relationship between NSA Souda Bay personnel and their Greek hosts, offering service members a unique avenue to train alongside elite local athletes—including European champions and Olympic trap and skeet shooters—while deepening cultural ties across the island.
"Our relationship with our Greek hosts is built on shared experiences both on and off duty," said Lt. Cmdr. Kristopher Appel, operations officer, NSA Souda Bay, who was in attendance. "Sailors participating in local sports and community events reinforces the strong, genuine partnership we share with the people of Crete."
NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore installation which enables and supports U.S., Allied, Coalition, and partner nation forces to preserve security and stability in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility. For more information, visit us at www.cnic.navy.mil/SoudaBay or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NSASoudaBay.