Medaling at the 2009 IDPA Nationals

Things have been crazy as usual since getting back from the USPSA Back-to-Back Nationals and the IDPA Nationals last month. I have wanted to write about my IDPA experience, but am only now getting the chance.  I had a great time at the match.  I can’t think of a better way to get back into IDPA! It has been a couple of years since I have competed at the Nationals and I felt a bit rusty. Nestled up against the USPSA Nationals, I knew I would have very little time to prepare for this match.  Considering that and being injured just before the Production Nationals, I had just one goal… HAVE FUN!

I am happy to report mission accomplished!  The courses of fire were diverse and challenging.  The match had all the things I look for in a National Championship – tough shots, elaborate props and exciting courses of fire.  One thing stands out in my mind the most though – the staff.  What a friendly, encouraging and professional group!  It started with the hard work of Robert Ray and all the fine folks at IDPA Headquarters laying the foundation well in advance. When competitors finally hit the range they received a warm welcome from Curt Nichols and Jerry Biggs in the shooters meeting.  I saw Joyce Wilson several times throughout the day on Thursday, smiling and acting as an ambassador for the sport.  Through the match and up to the very last stage, it was clear that the safety officers wanted everyone to have a safe, fun time.

I shot with some incredible shooters and had such a great squad.  Watching Dave Sevigny and Bob Vogel post phenomenal scores was simply awesome.  I saw my Smith & Wesson teammate Gordon Carrell perform well enough to place 2nd Overall and 1st Master in Stock Service Pistol.  Way to go Gordon!  I was also squadded with the talented Randi Rogers who earned this year’s High Lady Title.  Congratulations, Randi!  Special congrats also go out to my teammates Curt Nichols for winning Stock Service Revolver, Jerry Miculek for Enhanced Service Revolver and Mike Seeklander for Top Military Veteran.

I also enjoyed meeting so many women this year.  The number of women who compete and volunteer at the IDPA Nationals seems to have grown significantly since I last shot in 2006.  It is inspiring and I’d like to thank all of you who took the time to chat with me. I wish you the best of luck in your shooting!

One of the biggest challenges for me this year was to keep everything in perspective.  Having taken so much time off, I didn’t want to put too much pressure on myself to win.  Of course, that’s easier said than done.  I tackled my season intending to finish in the top three women in every event.  Except for my first major match, the USPSA Single Stack Nationals (4th), I did that and more. Bianchi Cup, International Revolver Championships and Steel Challenge marked my best performances, but I am very proud to finish out the season with 2nd place finishes at USPSA Production, Limited-10 and the IDPA Nationals.  

This year I took a step outside my comfort zone and found a new love of revolver shooting.  Throughout it all though, I can’t thank my husband enough.  He was there to continually remind me to take everything into consideration and to be proud of all I have accomplished. I am so lucky to have the support of my wonderful family and amazing sponsors.  Special thanks to my major sponsors…

• Smith & Wesson
• Atlanta Arms & Ammo
• Warren Tactical
• Rudy Project
• Blade-tech

What now?  Well, the most important task is healing up for 2010. I am also excited to enjoy my first hunting season in Montana. Moving into Thanksgiving and the holiday season, it is a time to be thankful.  It’s also a time to appreciate friends and family.  I intend to do just that and wish the same for all of you.

Here’s a photo montage from the IDPA Nationals.  Photos courtesy of the talented Yamil Sued.