You hear a lot of frightening stories about teens with guns, but I wish you heard more stories like this one. Katelyn Francis, or Katie, as she is known to her friends, is a fifteen-year-old expert marksman who has been competing in multi-gun events since 2010. The Blaze describes her as “armed and fabulous,” and we agree. I had the chance to chat with Katie this week and find out more about how this teen shooting star found her passion in marksmanship.
“I became interested in firearms at the age of five when my dad taught me the safety behind weapons,” Katie said. Katie’s father formerly served as marksmanship coordinator for the Missouri Army National Guard. “Safety first” is his motto, and when Retired Sgt. First Class Chad Francis felt that his daughter had mastered the fundamental safety rules of firearms, he taught her to shoot. Katie started participating in local pistol competitions at the age of nine and then started multi-gun competitions at thirteen.
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I asked Katie what types of reactions she gets when people find out that she is a competitive shooter. “Most people think it’s really cool that I shoot, but there are always people who disapprove of it and think I am too young,” she said. Keeping it positive, Katie focuses on what she has learned through her training: “I have good communication skills, and I can handle things under stressful situations and overcome the obstacles that might be in my way.”
“Overcome” is modest. She blows them away — literally.
Katie also shared that there are more women shooters than most people think. “At the end of October, I am going to Atlanta to shoot in an all women’s match that has about 200 females competing.” When I asked her what advice she might have for other teens that are interested in firearms competitions, she replied, “Learn the safety from someone who really knows what they are doing. Then, just do it! This sport isn’t for everyone, so if you don’t enjoy it, then it might not be for you; but, if you do like [it], then continue to practice and train with people that are experienced and can help you to improve.”
I asked Katie about her average daily routine. “I’m a typical teenager. I go to school, I hang out with friends, I do my homework, and when I have time, I practice.” Katie wants to be a doctor, so after high school, she plans to attend college and medical school. I have no doubt that this charming, determined teen will achieve all that and more. Keep your eye out for Katie — she’s the one who always has her nails painted and is snacking on candy corn in between stages at her matches. She’s also the one helping to redefine our image of girl power.
Keep us posted, Katie. We can’t wait to see what you’ll do next!
Photos used with permission of Katelyn Francis who retains their copyrights.