Ruger has launched its very own professional shooting team―signifying the company’s formal entrance into the competitive shooting sports arena. Leading this new Ruger shooting team is 18-time NRA Bianchi Cup National Action Pistol Champion Doug Koenig. More shooters will be announced in the coming weeks.
In addition to serving captain of Team Ruger, Koenig will also represent the company as an official Brand Ambassador. Highly regarded for his talents, he began shooting competitively at the age of 17, winning both regional and national competitions. Since turning pro in 1990, Koenig has shot a perfect 1920 score at the NRA Bianchi Cup a remarkable 17 times. In addition to his unmatched record of 18 Bianchi Cup victories, Koenig has won over 70 national and 10 world titles. In 2016, he won the NRA World Shooting Championship.
“I am thrilled to join Team Ruger and partner with such an iconic brand in our industry,” said Koenig. He added, “Ruger’s depth and breadth of products is a perfect fit for both my competitive shooting and hunting endeavors.”
In an interview with SSUSA last year, Koenig mentioned his interest in Precision Rifle Series competition. He said that his move to Ruger will help him continue this path in precision rifle. Here is an excerpt an interview Koenig did with Jim Shepherd of the Shooting Wire last week:
“[Ruger] products cover any type of competition, so I’ll be shooting their 1911, their polymer pistols and the Ruger precision rifle.”
“We are very excited to introduce Team Ruger, and particularly with a shooter of Doug Koenig’s caliber at the helm,” said Chris Killoy, Ruger’s president and CEO. “Doug is an outstanding addition to the Ruger team, bringing both a winning attitude and a true passion for growing the shooting and outdoor sports to the team.”
Koenig also hosts his own TV show, “Doug Koenig’s Championship Season,” where Ruger is the Presenting Sponsor. Each week, the show features a gritty combination of fast-paced shooting competition and wild hunting adventure. Koenig has also take over the role of match director for the Sportsman’s Team Challenge.
