Perhaps it’s because we are all inside this frosty time of year we are met with ample opportunities to reflect on our blessings (and blunders) and craft plans for the future. The new year brings a chance to reset and list out our goals and be inspired to push ourselves to do and be better.
Virginia Shooting Sports was founded in September 2017 as an answer to those seeking much more than “you’re behind” clay instruction. I wanted to truly help men, women and youth understand how to build consistency and if there was a miss, why it occurred and most importantly, how to fix it on the next shot. As my instruction has evolved with continuing education, there are a few take aways that I’d like to share.
Regardless of age, infirmity or location, anyone can enjoy clay games. It’s the great equalizer. I’ve worked with people of all ages, ethnicities, political parties and socio-economic backgrounds and the smiles are universal. Clay shooting is truly for everyone!
It’s far more important to be able to read targets and understand how your body and your shotgun work together than just “pound rounds”. Practice is important but make it count and always strive to learn from every outing.
There are TONS of gadgets and shooting schemes out there but at the end of the day, it still boils down to being able to read your target and understand the fundamentals. There’s no way to evade the geometry and physics on the field, so you’d better embrace them and understand them.
Feel free to fail. No one comes into this world as a master class level competitor or an Instagram famous bird hunter. It takes time, dedication and passion. I hate when people only show the big moments and hide the struggles. Those that do showcase their struggles share meaningful learning opportunities.
As you look forward to 2026, make plans to push yourself and set goals. Make sure the goals are within reach, such as moving up a class or two in competitive shooting. Perhaps you’ve been wanting to walk in the tall grasses of South Dakota or in the grouse woods of Maine? Do it and don’t ever second guess!
VSS is moving forward in 2026 and evolving into the next phase as we move closer to celebrating our first decade. My dear, sweet husband has not only indulged my passion for clays and feathers, but I believe he’s paddled out in the deep end with me! We’ve gone from just one GSP to seven plus our high-octane little English cocker. Mike is already shopping for another one as they really are incredible bird dogs.
Syren has brought me on as Promotions Manager for their hunting division which includes more travel across the country promoting these amazing shotguns. South Dakota and Minnesota are now my home away from home and have opened up for clay instruction and bird hunting trips for students and clients.
With all these wonderful changes and additions in VSS, it has come time to rename and expand. You’ll begin to see a shift in branding to Blue Kai Clay & Wing. The new website is under construction and will encompass the full extent of operations for clay instruction, bird hunting, excursions and the kennel. Most exciting is the addition of Jim Moore!
Jim brings over 40 years of clay shooting and bird hunting experience. He teaches very similar to me, caring more about the student’s comprehension and engagement than the clay count. Jim is available for private instruction through the VSS website.
Make 2026 memorable and don’t be afraid to stretch a little outside of your comfort zone. Most importantly, be sure to share the time with friends and family. Wishing everyone a very successful year ahead on the clay course and in the hunt field!
Kate Ahnstrom, owner of Virginia Shooting Sports is a certified, professional instructor of the Paragon School of Sporting. She has dedicated her life to sharing her passion for the outdoors and diversifying the dynamics on the clay course and the hunt field. Her tireless dedication to her students’ success is obvious in each and every lesson. Kate is on the pro staff for Syren, the resident pro at Bacon Farms Preserve, Artemis Ambassador, regional coordinatHer for HerUpland, department editor for Woods & Waters magazine, and contributing editor for Women’s Outdoor News. She and her husband, Mike enjoy their small farm in central Virginia where they have a menagerie of animals and plenty of room to train and work their beloved GSPs. Kate loves getting behind the barrel of her Syren Tempio Sporting 20ga for all things clay and feathered.
