The nap was not a long one. Graham hit my boot and said "The small one's up-get rested and set up on the pack and let's see what we've got."

I was no more settled and a round chambered when wide-flare came into view going down and away. The thought flashed "Should I consider him?" But the answer (this early) was no.

Just then, another ram came into view working his way up between two rocks. It was all happening fast, but even I knew this was the one I had come for. Quartering-to at a steep downward angle. 100 yards. Graham said "Clay, shoot that ram. Now!" I could feel the muted excitement in his voice. The ram hopped up out of the rocks, I steadied, and fired - all faster than it takes to type it. The rifle's report and the sound of the hit echoed together. He shuddered at the hit, dove off between the rocks he had just come out of, and I just caught his hindquarters giving way as he rounded the corner out of view.

Troy said, "Perfect shot, he's hit hard and I could see blood gushing from the off-shoulder. He'll be down right there!"

And he was - laying wedged in a small crevice just out of sight.

"OMG!!", the boys said, "Where did HE come from??" As I watched 3 rams meandering and finally running away - small ram, wide-flare, and ANOTHER tight curl- it finally hit me this was a ram they had not seen. The lead ram. And my dream ram. Big, 12 years old, and beautiful.




Epilogue tomorrow guys...

Wow, just wow! Awesome pics and nice shooting NP. Congrats big time!