Another ghost of Africa. Or hunting for blesbuck.

Together with a group of hunters we hunted in JATAVU SAFARIS in South Africa. We had excellent organisation of accommodation, hunting support, experienced and tactful guides. Thanks to this all hunters and guides were satisfied with the trip and trophies. On the last day we had an opportunity to hunt for blesbuck antelope. The blesbuck is one of the most beautiful antelopes in Africa, but very cautious. Even if you see it, it doesn't mean you can take it. Together with the guide we spotted a nice common blesbuck. It was in a group with two other white blesbuck. After stalking for half an hour, we decided to shoot from a distance of about 150 m. The guide set up a tripod and insisted on shooting. I was somewhat uncomfortable with this, as our blesbuck was partly behind a tree and partly in the bushes. The guide was probably counting on the heavy 375 calibre bullet and my professionalism. The tripod was a little lower than it needed to be.  It was uncomfortable to shoot, but I pulled the trigger. The animal fell on the spot. The guide immediately congratulated me, but it was a little early. The blesbuck tried to get up several times. As it turned out later, and as I suspected, the bullet hit the the spinous process of the spine. With such a wound it often happens that the animal first falls down, and then gets up and leaves. Knowing this, I wanted to shoot again, but the guide said there was no need. We moved towards the animal. Two white males stood looking at the third one and waited for it. Suddenly our trophy got up and moved behind the two white males. It was no longer possible to shoot. All three disappeared into the bush. And that's when the real hunt began. We looked for blood. Didn't find any. We only followed the tracks, which constantly crossed with the tracks of other animals. But we still managed to follow the course of our three. We spent 2 hours stalking through the bush, carefully choosing where to put our feet so as not to make too much noise. At last we saw them 300 meters away in the bush. It was obvious that a wounded blesbuck could not walk fast and long. So, we pursued it, hiding behind bushes and trees and always following the wind, as the terrain allowed. Finally, we managed to get 130-150 meters closer. Now the tripod stood as it should. Inhale, exhale. I held my breath, chose the necessary place to hit the beast and fired. The beast stayed put. This time it's gone for good. I am very happy that I managed to get the animal. My guide said it could be a medal trophy. Conclusion. As it turned out, the carbine was not shot for me. I didn't make a target shot with it. I should have done it. We changed carbines every day for some reason?! And another thing! If it's uncomfortable - DON'T SHOOT!!! But the main thing - the trophy is taken, and what a gorgeous one! It's a very beautiful blesbuck.