The Untold Secrets of an NRA Woman of the Year with Anne Mauro

Are you curious about how women are making their mark in the world of shotgun sports? On this episode of the Amateurs and Experts Podcast , hosts Erica Chin and Maggie Reese chat with NRA Woman of the Year Anne Mauro live from the 2026 SHOT Show. Anne shares how she got started in clay target shooting and how using ill-fitting equipment early on inspired her to help design shotguns that fit women better. She explains that anyone can excel with the right instruction, proper equipment, and dedicated practice. The hosts and Anne talk about overcoming obstacles on the range, including handling bad shooting days and learning the fundamentals of target flight. Anne highlights her work founding the University of Maryland shooting team and hosting an inclusive ladies' tournament at the NSCA Nationals in San Antonio. She encourages all new shooters to step up to the station and enjoy the sport, regardless of their skill level. To learn more about her annual tournament or get involved in clay sports, listeners can check out ScoreChaser.com or sign up for events with the National Sporting Clays Association. Links Timestamp 19:38: Find registration details for the NSCA Nationals in San Antonio at ScoreChaser.com . Key Takeaways Importance of Gun Fit: Factory shotguns are typically built for average-height men; improper fit causes physical discomfort, bruising, and poor target alignment, especially for women or smaller-framed shooters. Growing Female Participation: Women are increasingly becoming a major force in shooting sports, particularly in clay target disciplines. Dedication and Training: Developing high-level skill requires mastering basic target parameters (speed, angle, and distance) and maintaining focus through slump periods. Inclusive Opportunities: The NSCA Nationals Ladies Open in San Antonio provides an accessible entry point and supportive environment for women shooters of all skill levels. Collegiate Shooting Growth: Student-led shooting programs, such as the team Anne Mauro founded at the University of Maryland, play a key role in bringing young competitors into the sport. Key Words Used SHOT Show Otis Technology Amateurs and Experts Podcast Anne Morrow NRA Woman of the Year Sporting Clays Trap Skeet Gun Fitting Length of Pull University of Maryland NSCA (National Sporting Clays Association) ScoreChaser Cole Gun Crafting