Q: When did you start shooting?

A: I would say around the age of ten, maybe?? Like most kids in Arkansas, we got started young hunting and fishing. Both continue to be passions of mine.

Q: How did you get into competition shooting?

A: I have always enjoyed and been fascinated with shooting and the ability to hit targets at various distances, whether with a rifle, shotgun (which I suck shooting btw), or bow. I shot competitive archery for several years, competing all over the United States. Then I came across a video on Accurate Shooter of Shiraz Balolia and a gentleman calling wind for him and became interested immediately. And so it began.

Q: Do you have any family members who compete in shooting sports?

A: I started my wife shooting mid-range, and she loves it. We have found it is something we can do and enjoy together. And of course, we have some “friendly competition” between the two of us.

Q: what generally goes through your head before a match?

A: I try to formulate a wind game or strategy, if you will, and visualize the outcome in a positive manner, which usually goes out the window after I start shooting. Patience is something I still find I have to work towards.

Q: What advice do you have for new shooters?

A: Don’t try to reinvent the wheel if you want to shorten the learning curve. Pay attention to what the top-tier shooters are doing. Guys like John Meyers, David Gosnell, Larry Bartholome, Bob Sebold, Erik Cortina, Shiraz Balolia ask questions, go to the big matches, learn what to do and what not to do. Shoot team matches, or call wind for your buddy when you practice. Most importantly, have fun, and strive to reach whatever goal you set for yourself.

Q: What do you do for a living?

A: I worked in the oil and gas industry and now am “semi” retired.

Q: Where do you see the sport going in the future?

A:  I see it continuing to grow and becoming more and more competitive as McMillan, ELRHQ, Berger, and Nightforce continue to look for ways to improve and optimize their products. Some amazing Under 25 and junior shooters are coming up and ready to make their mark. Getting the young adults involved will be the key to growing and extending the longevity of the F-Class.

Q: Do you shoot on any team or teams?

A: I am part of a great group of guys who love the sport. We are “Team McMillan F-Open” and fortunate to be sponsored by McMillan Fiberglass Stocks.

Q: What are your future goals?

A: Honestly, I’m usually a middle of the pack shooter if everything goes right. I was blessed and lucky at Nationals; I still have a ton of room for improvement and learning when it comes to long-range. I hate to sound like a dork, but my goal is to put in the work and improve my game. Hopefully, one day I’ll share knowledge of the sport with new shooters as people have done with me.

Q: What was your favorite match, and why?

A: That would be the team match at Berger Southwest Nationals in 2017. Five throw-together guys came and broke the NRA National Team Palma Record, the Ben Avery Range Record and placed third overall was unforgettable. The camaraderie and jubilation back at the house after the match were second to none. It created a bond and friendship that will last a lifetime.

Q: what do you think your heart rate was when you set a national record?

A: I am positive it was up there, and I just kept trying to tell myself to stay focused. When I got to shot 17 (I knew the current record at the time was set by David Gosnell and tied by Keith Glasscock and Pat Scully), I was like, “ do no shoot a nine, do not shoot a nine, do not shoot a nine.” When I got to shot 20, I was DONE. And I believe I yelled, “I want that target.” Luckily for me, I was paired with a wonderful partner, Madison B. Unlike me, who was able to keep her wits about her and tell me to keep going. Thank you, Madison!

Q: Do you have anything you would like to add? 

A: Thank you for the opportunity to share my story. I’d want to take a minute to say a giant. Thank you to Mr. John Acton, my friend, mentor,  and gunsmith. Vachon Acton at The Gun Clinic for the impressive barrels they chamber for me! You guys help make it possible. Thank you, Kelly McMillian and McMillan Fiberglass Stocks. Thanks to my teammates for the encouragement and support that we share… And I wish everyone the best of luck for the 2019 shooting season and hope to see you at the range.

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