My name is Sasha Wierzbicki and I’ve been shooting ‘seriously’ since the beginning of the year.
Having grown up in the middle of Northampton, if you had told me at the age of twenty-four I would now be immersed (if not addicted to) shooting then I would have laughed.
Early 2018 was a struggle for me as I had a lot going on in my personal life, particularly following a toxic relationship. Regardless, I decided to ‘pick myself up’ and throw myself into something that would both empower me and help me to switch off from my 9-5 office job.
I got in contact with the Cornwall Lady Guns lead, Leeza Williams and started by shooting clays at a beginners day at Mid-Cornwall Shooting ground. I had previously only shot rifles with a friend, however, I wanted to do something by myself and FOR myself, and take pride in something I had achieved alone.
Having this goal in mind, I now know that, yes, I have undertaken shooting myself, but I would not be where I am without the support of the ladies in the group and regular shooting (as and when money and time would allow it). I received my shotgun and firearms certificates in the post just yesterday and I am nothing short of ecstatic and buzzing for what lies ahead of me!
Shooting for me has been about more than taking up a new hobby. It’s been about regaining the strength and confidence that I lost at the beginning of the year.
The amount of support I have had and the opportunities I’ve been offered since picking up a gun has been overwhelming. I think it’s pretty inspiring the number of friends that I have made in this sport, and particularly the number of strong women from all walks of life who lift each other up and encourage one another. I think a lot of other hobbies and sports could certainly learn a lot from us.
Sasha Wierzbicki