David Young – Transitioning from Mechanics to the Mental Aspect - Clay Mastermind with Dawn Grant: Mental Excellence & Industry Insights David Young, a clay shooter, shares his journey and the importance of the mental aspect of the sport. He discusses how his background in business and overthinking everything initially hindered his progress. However, with the help of mental training, he has learned to trust his subconscious and let go of overanalyzing. David emphasizes the need for intentional training and the shift from focusing on mechanics to focusing on the mental game. He also highlights the impact of repetition and habits in both shooting and other aspects of life. In this conversation, Dawn Grant and David discuss the importance of mental conditioning in sports, specifically in shotgun sports like clay shooting. They talk about the role of focus, the challenges of training mentally, and the need for guidance from experts in the field. They also touch on the significance of having fun, managing expectations, and the importance of vision in shooting. David shares his experience with the zone and the impact of mental training on his performance. They also discuss the importance of physical fitness, nutrition, and sleep in overall performance. David emphasizes the need for intentionality and commitment to continuous improvement. Dawn Grant Links https://dawngrant.com/ https://mindmastered.com/ https://ameliashotgunsports.com/ Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery Key Takeaways -The mental aspect of clay shooting becomes more important as you progress in the sport. -Overthinking and trying to make things happen can hinder performance. -Intentional training and focusing on the mental game are crucial for success. -Repetition and habits play a significant role in both shooting and other areas of life. Mental conditioning is crucial in sports, including shotgun sports like clay shooting. -Focus and the ability to let go of overthinking are essential skills to develop. -Finding a coach or mentor who understands the mental game and can guide you is important. -Having fun and managing expectations are key to enjoying the sport and performing well. -Physical fitness, nutrition, and sleep also play a significant role in overall performance. -Continuous improvement requires intentionality and commitment. Key Words: clay shooting, mental training, overthinking, subconscious, intentional training, repetition, habits, mental conditioning, focus, training, guidance, fun, expectations, vision, zone, physical fitness, nutrition, sleep, intentionality, continuous improvement Join The Clay Lab Squad to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQ4Epr--Dor0ydrflnLnTg/join Like, Share, and Subscribe. Be sure to comment what else you would like to see in the future. Disclaimers: All logos used in this video were used by express permission of Fiocchi USA, Cole Fine Guns & Gunsmithing, Westside Sporting Grounds, Ranger, Greenwood Custom Stocks, Castellani USA, Electronic Hearing Protection, SoundGear, Fennell Shooting School, and Krieghoff International. Music: Used under license from Epidemicsound This video, podcast, article, and channel are a product of Clay Lab USA, LLC. All Copyright protections apply.

Diane M. Sorantino, a successful clay shooter and retired law enforcement officer, discusses her journey in the shooting industry and the impact of her career on her shooting performance. She emphasizes the importance of managing fear and negativity in order to perform at a high level. Diane also reflects on the support system she has and the role it plays in her success. She addresses the lack of women in top overall rankings in major shooting events and highlights the talent and potential of female shooters. The conversation explores the changes and advancements in women's shooting sports. It discusses the commitment, practice, and resources that women now have access to, which have contributed to their success. The importance of mental game and confidence is also highlighted. The conversation emphasizes the need for balance between fun and seriousness while competing. The advice given is to be prepared, work hard, set goals, and enjoy the journey. The guest also expresses gratitude towards her sponsors and highlights the importance of partnerships in the sport. #Beretta #B&P #RERANGER #Briley #soundgear #castellaniusa

AIM Shooting School

Coaching with Diane Sorantino: https://clayshootinginstruction.com/instructors/#diane-sorantino

Dawn Grant Links

https://dawngrant.com/

https://mindmastered.com/

https://ameliashotgunsports.com/

Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery

Key Takeaways

-Managing fear and negativity is crucial for peak performance in shooting.

-A strong support system can greatly contribute to success in the shooting industry.

-Women have the potential to excel in clay shooting and should be recognized for their talent and achievements.

-Retirement and life transitions can impact shooting performance, but with proper adjustment and support, athletes can continue to thrive.

-Recognizing and addressing personal strengths and weaknesses is essential for growth and improvement in shooting. Women now have more commitment, practice time, and access to resources in shooting sports.

-The mental game and confidence play a significant role in shooting performance.

-Finding a balance between fun and seriousness is important while competing.

-Being prepared, working hard, setting goals, and enjoying the journey are key to success.

-Partnerships and sponsorships are crucial in the shooting sports industry.

www.Claylabusa.com

Wendell Cherry, a Hall of Fame sporting clay shooter and former professional guitar player, discusses his journey in clay shooting and the parallels between music and shooting. He emphasizes the importance of the mental game in shooting and how it is influenced by rhythm, flow, timing, tension control, and presence. Wendell shares his practice regimen, which includes repetition and analyzing each shot to improve performance. He also discusses the common mental challenges that shooters face, such as worry, doubt, fear, and overthinking, and the need to control the conscious mind. Overall, Wendell highlights the significance of the mental aspect in achieving success in clay shooting. In this conversation, Dawn Grant and Wendell Cherry discuss the importance of mental skills in clay shooting. They emphasize the need to practice these skills in all areas of life, not just in competition. They also discuss the ongoing nature of mental challenges and the importance of managing one's mind to handle issues and challenges effectively. They touch on the concept of the zone or alpha state and how it can be achieved through focused thought and suppressing the conscious mind. They also highlight the importance of having fun while competing and the close-knit community of clay shooters. Wendell Cherry Phone: (931) 529-1802 Wendell Cherry Website: https://www.wendellcherry.com/ Dawn Grant Links https://dawngrant.com/ https://mindmastered.com/ https://ameliashotgunsports.com/ Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery Key Takeaways -The mental game is crucial in clay shooting and is influenced by rhythm, flow, timing, tension control, and presence. -Repetition and analyzing each shot are important in improving performance. -Common mental challenges in shooting include worry, doubt, fear, and overthinking. -Controlling the conscious mind is essential for success in clay shooting. Practicing mental skills in all areas of life is crucial for success in clay shooting. -Managing the mind is an ongoing process, and challenges will always arise. -Achieving the zone or alpha state requires focused thought and suppressing the conscious mind. -Having fun while competing is important for peak performance. -The clay shooting community is a close-knit and supportive group. Join The Clay Lab Squad to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQ4Epr--Dor0ydrflnLnTg/join Like, Share, and Subscribe. Be sure to comment what else you would like to see in the future. Disclaimers: All logos used in this video were used by express permission of Fiocchi USA, Cole Fine Guns & Gunsmithing, Westside Sporting Grounds, Ranger, Greenwood Custom Stocks, Castellani USA, Electronic Hearing Protection, SoundGear, Fennell Shooting School, and Krieghoff International. Music: Used under license from Epidemicsound This video, podcast, article, and channel are a product of Clay Lab USA, LLC. All Copyright protections apply.

Welcome to another episode of the Fennell Shooting School Podcast, brought to you by The Clay Lab. In this exciting installment, host Will Fennell is joined by none other than the legendary George Digweed MBE, the most acclaimed clay shooter of all time. This episode promises a deep dive into two major topics: the upcoming Fujairah Mountain Shooting Championship and George Digweed’s enduring legacy, including his collaboration with World Champion Anthony Matarese Jr. on clay target instruction. The Fujairah Mountain Shooting Championship is a premier event held in the stunning Fujairah, United Arab Emirates. Known for its world-class organization and unparalleled luxury, this championship shoot stands out not only for its competitive spirit but also for the exceptional amenities provided. Participants can expect top-notch service, including all-inclusive arrangements for hotels, airfare, and concierge services. With substantial payouts across multiple categories—Ladies, Open, Juniors, and Seniors—this championship is a high-stakes, high-reward event that attracts the best shooters from around the globe. Will Fennell and George Digweed delve into the intricacies of planning for this unique event, covering everything from weather considerations and terrain challenges to the intricacies of target presentations. Their discussion provides valuable insights into what competitors can expect and why this is a shoot you absolutely don’t want to miss. Digweed’s illustrious career includes groundbreaking achievements such as being the first to shoot a ‘100 straight’ in a World Championship. He also set a new record in October 2011 by breaking a clay target at 130 yards, surpassing his previous record of 118 yards. His 2009 season was particularly remarkable, featuring victories in his 16th World Championship in Texas, as well as the World Sporting Championship, European Championship, Mitsubishi World Series, Pan African, and Italian Grand Prix. In April 2022, Digweed made history once again by becoming the first shooter to win a world title across five decades—the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s—by securing the World Sporting Championship. His impressive record includes 16 World Sporting titles, 12 FITASC World titles, and two Compak World titles, in addition to 19 European titles and 12 World Cups. Beyond his competitive accolades, George Digweed’s influence extends to clay target instruction. He has produced a series of instructional DVDs in collaboration with World Champion Anthony Matarese Jr., offering valuable insights and techniques for aspiring shooters. These resources are available at Digital Clay Target Instruction. Concluding the podcast, Will Fennell and George Digweed reflect on the latter’s unparalleled contributions to the sport of clay shooting and his ongoing impact through instruction. George Digweed and his wife, Kate, also manage a commercial shooting venture at Owley Farm in Wittersham, Kent, further showcasing his dedication to the sport. Tune in to this episode for a comprehensive exploration of the Fujairah Mountain Shooting Championship, the legacy of George Digweed, and insights into top-tier clay target instruction. It’s an episode packed with expertise, excitement, and unparalleled shooting insights that every clay shooting enthusiast will appreciate. www.Fennellshootingschool.com Join The Clay Lab Squad to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQ4Epr--Dor0ydrflnLnTg/join Like, Share, and Subscribe. Be sure to comment what else you would like to see in the future. Music: Used under license from Epidemicsound This video, podcast, article, and channel are a product of Clay Lab USA, LLC. All Copyright protections apply.

Grace Callahan is a competitive shooter with numerous accomplishments in the sport. She started shooting at a young age and fell in love with it, eventually making it her career. Grace has a compartmentalized way of thinking, which helps her focus on the task at hand and move on from mistakes. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and learning from each shot. Grace also discusses the challenges of balancing her shooting career with running her own business. Overall, she is passionate about shooting and constantly strives to improve. Grace Callahan discusses the importance of balance and perspective in both clay shooting and life. She shares her experience of dealing with challenges and finding solutions, emphasizing the need to take a step back and focus on the big picture. Grace and Dawn Grant also discuss the impact of relationships on mental training and how surrounding yourself with understanding and supportive people can enhance personal growth. They highlight the connection between mental training and life skills, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, communication, and handling situations that don't go as planned. The conversation also touches on the significance of perception and attitude in clay shooting, such as how one's reaction to rain or other external factors can affect performance. Grace and Dawn explore the challenges of running a shooting club and the importance of continuous learning and improvement. They discuss the role of trust in oneself and the need to judge oneself objectively and with love, rather than from a place of criticism. Grace shares her motivation to constantly improve and her willingness to change standards and priorities to pursue her goals in the shooting industry. She also acknowledges the importance of balance and not being too hard on oneself when facing time constraints and other life commitments. In this conversation, Dawn Grant and Grace Callahan discuss the importance of mental training in shooting sports. They explore topics such as the role of mindset in competition, the concept of the zone state, and the power of repetition and muscle memory. Grace shares her personal journey in shooting and how she found a mentor in Joe, who not only taught her shooting skills but also life skills. They emphasize the need for shooters to invest in mental training and provide resources for further learning. Grace Callahan Website: https://www.gracecallahanllc.com/ Dawn Grant Links https://dawngrant.com/ https://mindmastered.com/ https://ameliashotgunsports.com/ Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery Key Takeaways: -Compartmentalization is a valuable skill in shooting, allowing shooters to focus on each target and move on from mistakes. -Self-awareness is crucial for identifying and addressing personal pitfalls in shooting. -Learning from mistakes and making immediate corrections is essential for improvement. -Balancing a shooting career with other responsibilities, such as running a business, requires prioritization and effective time management. Finding balance and perspective is crucial in both clay shooting and life. -Surrounding yourself with understanding and supportive people can enhance personal growth. -Perception and attitude play a significant role in clay shooting performance. Join The Clay Lab Squad to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQ4Epr--Dor0ydrflnLnTg/join Like, Share, and Subscribe. Be sure to comment what else you would like to see in the future. Disclaimers: All logos used in this video were used by express permission of Fiocchi USA, Cole Fine Guns & Gunsmithing, Westside Sporting Grounds, Ranger, Greenwood Custom Stocks, Castellani USA, Electronic Hearing Protection, SoundGear, Fennell Shooting School, and Krieghoff International. Music: Used under license from Epidemicsound This video, podcast, article, and channel are a product of Clay Lab USA, LLC. All Copyright protections apply.

Meet Weekend Warrior… Dan Lengyel, Co-CEO of Spectrum Financial Group, dedicated husband, father of two daughters, and passionate clay shooter. When Dan isn't steering his financial firm or enjoying quality time with his family, he's immersed in the world of competitive clay shooting, striving to perfect both his mental and mechanical skills.

Dan's journey is a powerful blend of mastering his mind game with the guidance of Dawn Grant and refining his shooting mechanics under the instruction of top shooting coaches. He understands that success in clay shooting comes from a delicate balance of mental focus and technical precision. This dual approach not only helps Dan improve his performance on the range but also offers valuable insights for shooters at all levels.

Join us as we explore Dan's experiences in harmonizing his professional life, family life, and relentless pursuit of shooting excellence. Whether you're working on your mental game, fine-tuning your mechanics, or both, Dan’s story is a relatable and inspiring example of dedication and growth in the sport.

Dawn Grant Links

https://dawngrant.com/

https://mindmastered.com/

https://ameliashotgunsports.com/

Free webinar here: https://dawngrant.com/pages/clay-shooters-mind-game-mastery

Key Takeaways

-Being present and eliminating mental chatter is crucial for peak performance in clay shooting.

-Physical fitness and overall well-being contribute to shooting performance.

-Analytical thinkers may struggle with the non-analytical nature of clay shooting.

-Competitive drive and motivation are key factors in Dan's shooting journey.

-Improving mental game can have a positive impact on all aspects of life. Improving shooting scores is closely related to improving one's overall life.

-Finding balance and having fun are key to peak performance in shooting.

-Focusing on the mental game and making positive lifestyle changes can lead to better shooting performance.

-Having a post-shot routine and evaluating performance can help identify areas for improvement.

-There is no magic pill for success in shooting; hard work and discipline are necessary.

-Finding joy in the sport and maintaining balance in life are crucial for sustained performance.

Music: Used under license from Epidemicsound

This video, podcast, article, and channel are a product of Clay Lab USA, LLC. All Copyright protections apply.

The Drive to Win: Richard Faulds' Motivation Target Setting: US vs. England Richard Faulds, a professional shooter and target setter, shares his journey in the shooting industry and his passion for the sport. He grew up on a farm in West Sussex, where he started clay shooting at a young age. He went on to represent the GB team in FITASC and competed in multiple Olympic Games. Richard now owns Al's Lodge Shooting School in Hampshire and sets targets for various events. He emphasizes the importance of staying relaxed and laid back in shooting, and his drive to win motivates him. He also discusses the challenges of target setting and handling criticism. In this conversation, Richard discusses the challenges and dynamics of clay shooting. He emphasizes the importance of pushing oneself out of their comfort zone and shooting challenging targets to improve. Richard also compares target setting in the US and England, highlighting the differences in speed and trajectory. He shares his experience with sports psychology and how it has helped him achieve success in shooting. Richard emphasizes the importance of enjoying the sport and having fun while competing. He also mentions the challenges of sponsorship in the UK shooting industry. Owls Lodge Shooting School: https://www.olss.co.uk/ Dawn Grant Links https://dawngrant.com/ https://mindmastered.com/ https://ameliashotgunsports.com/ Key Takeaways -Richard Faulds grew up on a farm in West Sussex and started clay shooting at a young age. He went on to represent the GB team in FITASC and competed in multiple Olympic Games. -Richard now owns Al's Lodge Shooting School in Hampshire and sets targets for various events. He emphasizes the importance of staying relaxed and laid back in shooting. -His drive to win motivates him, and he hates losing. He has learned to handle the pressure and mental challenges of the sport. -As a target setter, Richard aims to create challenging and unique targets that test shooters' skills. He understands the importance of balancing difficulty and fairness. -Handling criticism is a part of target setting, and Richard tries to make shooters feel responsible for their performance rather than blaming the targets. Pushing oneself out of the comfort zone and shooting challenging targets is crucial for improvement in clay shooting. -Target setting in the US tends to be slower and focuses on long, slow targets, while in England, targets are thrown with more speed and on straight lines. -Sports psychology can play a significant role in improving performance in shooting, and having a clear mind and enjoying the sport are essential. -The UK shooting industry faces challenges in obtaining outside sponsorship and increasing coverage. -Having fun and enjoying the sport is a key factor in achieving success in clay shooting. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 06:03 Early Achievements and Olympic Career 11:18 Owning Al's Lodge Shooting School 19:15 The Importance of Relaxation and Motivation 23:36 The Art of Target Setting 28:05 Handling Criticism as a Target Setter 32:59 Target Setting: US vs. England 38:33 The Role of Sports Psychology in Shooting 50:14 The Importance of Enjoyment and Having Fun Join The Clay Lab Squad to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQ4Epr--Dor0ydrflnLnTg/join Like, Share, and Subscribe. Be sure to comment what else you would like to see in the future.

Disclaimers: All logos used in this video were used by express permission of Fiocchi USA, Cole Fine Guns & Gunsmithing, Westside Sporting Grounds, Ranger, Greenwood Custom Stocks, Castellani USA, Electronic Hearing Protection, SoundGear, Fennell Shooting School, and Krieghoff International. Music: Used under license from Epidemicsound This video, podcast, article, and channel are a product of Clay Lab USA, LLC. All Copyright protections apply.

Madison Sharp, the 2024 US Open ladies champion, shares her journey in shotgun shooting and her aspirations for the future. She discusses the challenges she has faced, including being a young girl in a male-dominated sport and the importance of mental game in shooting. Madison also talks about her goal of owning her own gun club and the belief that women can excel in the sport. She emphasizes the need for confidence and mental preparation in order to perform at a high level. In this conversation, Madison discusses the importance of mental preparedness in clay shooting. She emphasizes the need to have a pre-shot routine and to focus on mental mindset and approach. Madison also highlights the significance of a good support system and the role of parents in a shooter's success. She shares her own experience of dealing with pressure and the importance of having fun in the sport. Madison provides advice for shooters and encourages them to never give up and to find confidence in themselves. Madison Sharpe Email: mvsharpe0130@gmail.com Hog Heaven Sporting Clays: https://sfhogheaven.com/instructors/madison-sharpe/ Dawn Grant Links https://dawngrant.com/ https://mindmastered.com/ https://ameliashotgunsports.com/ Join The Clay Lab Squad to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQ4Epr--Dor0ydrflnLnTg/join Like, Share, and Subscribe. Be sure to comment what else you would like to see in the future. Key Takeaways -Madison Sharp, the 2024 US Open ladies champion, has been shooting competitively for 12 years and has faced challenges such as being a young girl in a male-dominated sport. -She believes that women can excel in shotgun shooting and is motivated to prove doubters wrong. -Madison's goal is to own her own gun club and she is currently working at a gun club in Texas, teaching and helping run the club. -She emphasizes the importance of mental game in shooting and the need for confidence and mental preparation to perform at a high level. Mental preparedness and having a pre-shot routine are crucial in clay shooting. -A good support system, including parents, is essential for a shooter's success. -Having fun in the sport is important and can lead to better results. -Never give up and find confidence in yourself. Chapters 00:00 Technical Difficulties 03:54 Introduction and Background 05:11 Interest in Shotgun Shooting 07:12 Accomplishments and Goals 09:03 Balancing Shooting and Work 11:50 Belief in Women's Ability to Win 16:13 Motivation and Overcoming Challenges 24:07 Challenges Faced as a Female Shooter 26:14 The Importance of Mental Game 33:28 Managing Thoughts and Performance 34:26 Mental Preparedness and Pre-Shot Routine 37:28 The Importance of Physical Fitness and Nutrition 45:44 Overcoming Challenges and Not Giving Up 50:01 The Significance of Having Fun in the Sport 53:50 Building Confidence and Positive Mindset 56:17 Using Affirmations and Positive Words 01:00:40 Parental Support and Pressure Music: Used under license from Epidemicsound This video, podcast, article, and channel are a product of Clay Lab USA, LLC. All Copyright protections apply.