Brad Kidd, Jr, 25-time All American and National Champion for the National Sporting Clays Association, stopped by Upperville in early August to coach for two days at Isobel Ziluca's facility. Brad had just returned from Italy, where the World FITASC Championship was held, and ranked 3rd overall as a member of Team USA.

It was an easy "yes, and I'll come to Upperville" when Isobel contacted him. This area is rich in passionate, accomplished people, and Isobel is one of them.

Usually, you'd think refined skills that require tremendous eye and hand coordination and timing begin in one's youth, but Isobel didn't start shooting until she was 52. Beginning with dove hunting, she tried her hand at sporting clays at fundraisers, monthly shoots, and then competing in NSCA Registered shoots. Now ranked 15th in the country in the women's division (all ages), she became an NSCA Certified Instructor and earned her way to Master Class, the top class is her sport. And she is also an All-American in 12, 20, 28, and 410 gauges.

Students and amateurs from the area were given intense personal training, observations, and help over the two days. Brad lives in Florida with his wife and three young sons when not competing and runs the lesson program at the South Florida Shooting Club near Palm City. He, too, is passionate about teaching this challenging but rewarding sport.

Are you interested in getting into the sport of clay shooting? There are many sporting clay clubs in the area, and many groups have charity fundraisers that keep those shooting in shape, ranging from youth to senior. Contact Isobel Ziluca at iziluca@aol.com for more information.