Gun Culture And SocietyShooting Competition
What’s In Your Range Bag, Ashlyn Blake?
What’s In Your Range Bag, Ashlyn Blake?
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍West Virginia
In the competitive world of collegiate rifle shooting, few athletes have made as significant an impact as Ashlyn Blake from the West Virginia University rifle team. In recent months, this accomplished marksman has been recognized for her dedication and skill, earning notable titles such as the 2025 Great American Rifle Conference Rookie of the Year and the Collegiate Rifle Coaches Association Rookie of the Year. Her journey in the sport began in 2019, inspired by her father's passion for shooting and his tale of competing despite injuries.
Blake picked up her first firearm, a .22 caliber with a five-round magazine, and immediately fell in love with the sport, bolstered by a family legacy that emphasizes hard work and resilience. As she began her competitive shooting career in 2020, she encountered the challenges of a pandemic that necessitated breaks and adjustments. Despite these obstacles, Blake’s passion for shooting only grew, culminating in impressive achievements like earning third place at the NCAA rifle championship and being named to both the Drew Cup Prone Team and the Futures Team.
When it comes to the equipment Blake uses, her choices are reflective of the high standards present in competitive shooting. She relies on a Walther KK500 Ultra Light smallbore rifle and a Feinwerkbau 900 air rifle, utilizing premium ammunition brands like Lapua Center-X, Midas+, and R10 or QYS pellets. However, beyond merely what rifles she uses, Ashlyn’s commitment to her performance is evident in how she manages her shooting gear. Her range bag—a functional Nike bag—holds not just her rifles in protective cases but also an array of equipment essential for her success on the line. From her suit to kneeling rolls and even a beloved magenta visor that carries emotional significance, each item reflects her preparedness and dedication to the sport.
Her visor, in particular, serves as a tribute to her late grandmother, allowing Blake to carry her presence with her as she competes. This personal touch signifies the emotional and familial bonds intertwined with the sport—a common theme among competitive shooters who often draw strength from their backgrounds and support systems.
Ashlyn’s story isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s also a reflection of the growing accessibility of competitive shooting to young athletes today. With social media influencers like Ginny Thrasher and Mary Tucker providing resources and support, newcomers to the sport can find guidance on improving their skills and understanding the discipline required.
Additionally, the collegiate shooting community is becoming increasingly vibrant, drawing in young talents who, like Ashlyn, find themselves dedicated to honing their craft amidst the pressures of academic life. As Ashlyn encourages others to engage with the sport, she emphasizes that while it takes significant dedication to excel, the rewards—both personal and competitive—are well worth the effort.
Ashlyn Blake represents the promising future of collegiate shooting, marked by achievement and the potential to influence a new generation of shooters. As the sport grows in prominence, so too does the depth of community involvement and support, allowing athletes from all walks of life to strive toward achieving their competitive goals. While the gains made by Blake are significant, it’s the stories of perseverance, connection, and dedication that resonate most deeply within the shooting community.
As we observe the rising stars like Ashlyn Blake, it’s clear that competitive shooting is not only about skill but also about fostering connections and honoring legacies. This trend suggests a more inclusive future for young athletes, where emotional ties and personal stories play pivotal roles in their journeys. While early reports indicate these elements enrich the competitive landscape, it remains essential to create environments that nurture growth and mentorship. The implications for future athletes are profound: with enhanced support systems in place, the next generation can look forward to a culture that celebrates both personal milestones and communal bonds.