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Left The Range
Clifford (Skip) Talbot
July 8th, 1942 - July 1st, 2005
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 Remarkable or outstanding in magnitude, degree, or extent. Of outstanding significance or importance. Superior in quality or character; noble.
Greatness is a word all too often linked with fame and fortune, often by those who have no idea what true greatness really is. For those of us who knew Skip Talbot, it is a measure that few other men will ever match.
The biggest irony is that Skip's greatness was not what you noticed first. That would have been the warm smile he shared with strangers as easily as friends, or the firm handshake of someone you immediately knew you wanted to hold on to. You noticed the dignity and compassion of a voice that never rose to anger or insult, even when given cause.
For those of us who had the priviledge of knowing him well, the milestones of Skip's life are untold moments of kindness and generosity, given freely and without fanfare when no one else was looking. A world record-holding champion in numerous shooting sports, Skip's true love was the fifty caliber rifle and he was never too busy to stop and help someone in that community -- from newcomer to veteran. He founded the FCSA, giving home to a growing sport and a "fifty cal family" that today measures in the thousands.
Perhaps the most enduring gift of greatness is its ability to inspire others, an example that quietly challenged us to find the best in ourselves every day. In that Skip Talbot was as great a man as I have ever known. The fifty caliber community has lost a founding father, a mentor, a champion... and one hell of a man. We will miss him more than words can say.
Godspeed and straight aim Skip.
John Burtt
President
Fifty Caliber Institute
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