Day 3 of the main match for the IPSC Action Air World Shoot 2025 in Iloilo City has concluded, passing the halfway point of the competitive schedule. Held at the Iloilo Convention Center, the air-conditioned venue has provided a consistent environment for the athletes, a welcome respite from the tropical climate outside, which seems determined to make everyone sweat and wonder if they’ve made a terrible mistake by not packing a second-hand fan. The match, which runs from 30 July to 3 August, is the culmination of a week-long series of events, including the pre-match and opening ceremony, where everyone politely clapped and tried to look awake despite the jet lag and the overwhelming urge to find a quiet corner for a nap.

The competition, as is typical for IPSC-sanctioned events, is designed to test a range of shooting skills, from accuracy to speed. Competitors are required to engage a variety of targets in different scenarios, demanding a balance of tactical decision-making and precise execution. The use of airsoft pistols in a sport that mimics real-steel shooting provides a level of accessibility and safety that is a hallmark of the Action Air discipline. T rhythmic pops of gas powered guns have become the soundtrack to the competition, punctuated by the occasional clang of a dropped magazine—the universal sound of "oops," followed by a quick glance around to see if anyone noticed.

While the preliminary results from the pre-match have been collated, the main match's standings are still a developing narrative. The day's events have undoubtedly shifted the leaderboards, with competitors vying for position in their respective divisions. The ebb and flow of scores is a testament to the unpredictable nature of the sport, where a single missed target or a procedural error can have significant consequences. It's a reminder that even the most seasoned competitors are not immune to the pressures of a world-level competition, or the sudden urge to scratch their nose right before a stage begins, inevitably leading to a rogue shot.

For those not in attendance, Popular Airsoft has been providing a livestream of the event, offering a window into the fast-paced action. The live feed has become a focal point for the online airsoft community, allowing enthusiasts to follow their favorite competitors and get a sense of the match's atmosphere. This digital presence ensures that the competition's reach extends beyond the confines of the Iloilo Convention Center, bringing the sport to a global audience. It is, for better or worse, a way to experience the event without the hassle of international travel, the heat, and the inevitable sunburn that comes with forgetting to reapply sunscreen.

Watch the Day 3 morning and afternoon livestreams below:

The social aspect of the World Shoot is also in full swing. Between stages, competitors and range officers can be seen chatting and exchanging tips. This camaraderie is a staple of the practical shooting community, where rivalries on the firing line are often put aside in favor of a shared passion for the sport. The event serves as a meeting point for old friends and an opportunity for new connections to be forged, creating a network that spans continents and cultural divides. It's a place where you can find someone who speaks your language and understands why you spent so much on a custom pistol, only to find out it was a lemon.

As the match enters its final days, the pressure will only increase. The remaining stages will determine the final standings and the eventual champions. Every second and every point will matter, as competitors push their limits to secure a top spot. The final days are a tense mix of focused energy and the quiet dread that you've forgotten to clean your gun. The closing ceremony on August 3 will mark the end of the competition, but the memories and lessons learned will likely remain with the athletes long after the final shot has been fired and everyone has gone home to polish their gear and complain about their scores.

The event, hosted in Iloilo City, has also provided a boost to the local economy, drawing a crowd of visitors to the region. The city's reputation as a sports tourism destination is being reinforced, with officials highlighting the potential for future events of this scale. The logistical preparations, including coordination with national agencies, appear to have paid off, ensuring a relatively smooth experience for all involved, from the athletes to the vendors selling cold drinks and the inevitable tourist T-shirts.

However, the real winners might be the local eateries, who have seen a steady stream of competitors looking to refuel after a long day on the range as Iloilo is recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. The airsoft community's love for good food is rivaled only by their love for new airsoft gun, so it's a safe bet that every available restaurant chair has been occupied by someone discussing their stage performance over a plate of local delicacies. It's a testament to the sport that even with the pressure of a world-level competition, a good meal can still be the highlight of the day.

Popular Airsoft's coverage of the Action Air World Shoot 2025 is supported by PDI-Japan/X-Fire.