Women Continue to Pave the Way for the Shooting Sports Industry
#Women are entrenched in every aspect of the shooting community, and our innovative influence and economic impact is palpable in the aisles of #Cabelas, #BassProShops and any local #gunshop or #gunshow. The market has taken notice and is catering to women in new, exciting ways. We see adaptations from personalized firearm colors at #DuraCoat #Firearm Finishes to gorgeous luxury #concealedcarry #purses like #TwelveSixCo, that rival high-end fashion labels.
The Self-Defense Shooters
Many women find their way to the range with the help of a class, like #NRA’s Refuse To Be A Victim®. Since it was founded in 1993, this program has taught more than 100,000 women about #selfdefense, and now boasts more than 7,000 instructors. Likewise, NRA’s Women on Target program grew from 500 participants in 2000 to more than 13,000 in 2014.
The Competition Shooters
Despite being tragically under-publicized by major media, we have our own equivalent of #rockstars, with a fan base as dedicated as a group of New Orleans Saints season ticket holders: female professional #competitive #shooters. Saying this field is broad would be wildly understating the reality of this booming category. Names like Smith & Wesson team captain #JulieGolob in IDPA, #LenaMiculek in 3-Gun, #AnetteWachter in Long Range, #KendaLenseigne in Mounted Western, and #JoAnnaWilson sponsored by #PatriotDefense and #GunRodeo are now etched into the foundation of these games along with those of their male counterparts.
The Olympians
At the highest competitive level we find the #Olympians. These are women who are often lucky to discover their passion early. Shooters like #GabbyFranco, a contributor to the NRA Women’s Network and #NRA News, inspire men and women alike in their instruction, talent and biographies. #LannyBarnes and #TracyBarnes, known as the #twin #biathletes, who continue to inspire the next generation threw grace and compassion for the sport. The world took note of their heartwarming story of sisterly dedication as Tracy gave up her spot on the 2014 #Olympic Team to allow Lanny to compete. Even Jimmy Fallon of the “Tonight Show” appreciated the sacrifice and gave tribute to them on his show.
mcanellysan
