SHOOTING: After six Olympics, Russell Mark has admitted these London Games have been his last.

Mark, competing in the double trap competition, finished his qualifying rounds with a score of 128, and failed to make the final at the Royal Artillery Barracks.

A philosophical Mark conceded that it was a hard day at the office.

“They were tough conditions for me – and I really struggled,” said Mark, referring to the gloomy skies.

“I’m not using it as an excuse, but at my age I need it bright, hot and sunny. The younger guys will do well here.”

The Atlanta gold and Sydney silver medallist said it’s been an honour to represent Australia at the highest level.

“Absolutely. Going to one Games is great and only a handful have been to six and I happen to be rooming with one of them (Michael Diamond),” he said.

Mark is not giving up the sport he loves, but rather taking a break with his eyes on the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow as his farewell appearance.

The 48 year-old Victorian says proposed changes to the double trap format will make it even harder for ‘veterans’ like him.

“In November they are announcing those changes, and there are rumours that they will split the targets up which will make it really tough,” Mark said.

In other action at the Range, South Australia’s David Chapman shot a score of 278 in the first 3 rounds of the 25 metre rapid fire pistol competition.

Damian Kelly in London

Olympics.com.au