“My Shooting Sports Story” is a place for people from all walks of life to share how they got started in the shooting sports and what they mean to them. There is a place for everyone in the shooting sports, regardless of age, race, religion, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation or physical ability. It is our hope that these stories will connect and encourage others to give the shooting sports a try.
Jessica Delos Reyes, Sports PR
Who are you and what do you do?
Jessica Delos Reyes, Sports Media and wannabe Air Pistol shooter.
This photo is of me shooting my first match, the 2014 Winter Airgun Championships (where I came in 2nd to last).
How did you get started in the shooting sports?
I went shooting with my dad once when I was a kid and I hated it. Tried airgun when the athletes at USA Shooting introduced me to it when I started working there and really liked it – it was quiet and virtually no recoil. (Plus, I could do it like 50 feet from my office with minimal equipment!)
What do you like most about the shooting sports?
When I shoot, I like how everything goes quiet. I know that sounds silly for the shooting sports, but when I can only hear my breathing, feel the beat of my heart and the shot go off because I’m really focused – it’s the only time in my day (besides sleeping!) where I can quiet my mind and all the other responsibilities in my life.
What is your favorite shooting sport (if you have one)?
Rapid Fire Pistol – it’s an Olympic event and only men shoot it, but Olympian Keith Sanderson taught me how to shoot it and let me use his gun and it was a LOT of fun!
What would you say to someone looking to get started?
Go with someone or find an instructor you trust the first few times to ask all of those “silly” questions because they’re not so silly. Once you have some knowledge, you’ll feel a lot more comfortable and confident.
In this video, champion pistol shooter Doug Koenig offers advice on how to introduce newcomers to the shooting sports.
