This weekends Ladyseed was a huge success. Attended by 14 ladies on Saturday and 12 on Sunday, the shoot proved to be extremely high energy with a phenominal group of students. At least a quarter of the ladies had never handled a firearm prior to their arrival on Saturday, prompting the instructors to take a little extra time reviewing the basics of firearm safety up front, and then working with individual students as we started shooting. While the pace was somewhat slower as a result, the ladies all responded well to input from our instructors. Saturdays instruction was cut short by a severe storm that hit the area about 2:30 PM. The availability of smart phones allowed for an educated assessment of the pending weather, so the instructors and students were prepared when the weather hit, allowing the line to be cleared quickly and safely in spite of the wind and rain. Sunday's heritage curriculum picked up with the 2nd strike, and while we weren't able to work in as many Dangerous Old Men/Women/Children stories, the students got the connection between marksmanship and our American heritage. They also received a tear wrenching rendition of the wedding story from one_shot_one_hole that really brought the whole program into perspective. Ultimately we were able to cover all of the curriculum and complete an AQT to standard before the clock ran out. Despite not having any of the ladies shoot a Rifleman score, all of the shooters improved over the course of the weekend, many of them dramatically. Of special note, we were able to recognize four young shooters with Patriot patches, each of whom participated in the entire weekend firing every course of fire, safely.
What a great shoot! The participants were energetic and really pushed themselves to perform at their best. We all celebrated watching the improvement after each lesson. The most pleasure was working with such excellent instructors.
Thanks to all who came out and participated. You make it worthwhile.
;)
Thanks to all the instructors for a very rewarding weekend! Your patience and understanding made everyone feel at ease and eager to learn about our great Nation. Was a pleasure to meet all of you!
Thanks for all you do! :) See you soon!