In this episode, I'm joined by Dennis Sprenger, the proprietor of Clay Target Vision, along with Phil Pilla. Together, we have a comprehensive discussion on the standout lenses of 2023 and the reasons behind their popularity. If you find yourself still puzzled about which lenses suit different lighting conditions, prepare to engage your intellect. This episode is loaded with technical insights into these lenses, showcasing the remarkable fusion of technology and expertise in collaboration with Zeiss. The intricacies behind the lens technology never cease to amaze me.

From a young age, Mike's passion for sporting clays has been an unwavering force in his life. At the age of 14, he started into the world of clay shooting by taking up a position at a local clay range, an experience that ignited his passion for this sport. Over the years, Mike has become widely recognized for his exceptional talent in setting targets and catering to shooters of all skill levels.

Since joining Rocky Creek in June 2019, Mike's journey in the world of sporting clays has been nothing short of remarkable. His dedication and skill have not only earned him a place among the shooting community but have also gained him multiple titles from competitions spanning the entire country. Mike stands as a testament to the fusion of passion and proficiency, as he not only excels as a seasoned shooter but has also evolved into a highly qualified and sought-after shooting instructor.

Mike's commitment to the sport extends to the sharing of his knowledge and skills with others. As a shooting instructor, he imparts his wisdom to enthusiasts at all levels, contributing to the growth and development of the sporting clay community. Whether on the range or in the classroom, Mike's impact is undeniable, making him a respected figure not only for his achievements but also for his dedication to the broader community of clay shooters.

In today's podcast episode, we have Donny Ballard and Nathan Robinson from Winchester Ammunition to discuss their experiences in 2023, talk about upcoming developments for 2024, and explore their long-term plans. Winchester is experiencing rapid growth in clay target sports and is committed to maintaining this momentum.

Hailing from Texas, Austin Kiemsteadt embarked on his shooting journey later than many of his accomplished counterparts. Despite this, he quickly discovered his passion for the sport and demonstrated remarkable proficiency. Currently enrolled at Texas A&M, he actively contributes to their shooting team. In 2023, he achieved notable success with multiple top 5 finishes, securing an impressive 4th place at the NSCA National Championship and participating in the lead group of the super squad. With his upward trajectory, it wouldn't be surprising to witness Austin consistently near the top in 2024.

Madison Sharpe hails from the charming state of South Carolina and currently calls Texas home. This exceptional shooter has not only dedicated herself to the world of clay target sports but has also become a beacon of excellence in the game. With a full-time role at a gun club and a passion for coaching, she has not only mastered her own skills but has also played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of shooters. Her list of achievements reads like this – Winner at the Seminole Cup, the Gator Cup, the North Central Regional, and the Fujarha Mountain Shooting Championship. And if that weren't impressive enough, she now proudly holds the title of the 2023 Ladies National Champion. 

Brandon Powell is undeniably one of the most gifted shotgun shooters to ever step onto the sporting clays scene. After a five-year hiatus, he made a triumphant return that has left the entire community in awe. It's almost easier to list the titles he hasn't won since his comeback than to recount his victories. Powell's remarkable skills and unwavering determination have propelled him to the forefront of the sport. He not only clinched the coveted title of 2023 National Champion but also had the honor of leading Team USA Sporting as their captain. Powell's resurgence in the world of shotgun shooting stands as a testament to his unparalleled talent and dedication to the craft.

Griffin Howe, a sub-junior talent hailing from Michigan, has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the 2023 shooting season. Remarkably, at a mere 16 years old, his talent with a firearm is nothing short of extraordinary. What sets Griffin apart is not just his age, but his unwavering determination to test his skills against the very best in the country. He crisscrosses the nation, participating in the largest NSCA tournaments, where he faces off against seasoned veterans and emerging stars alike. Griffin's ambition knows no bounds; he has set lofty targets for himself, and it's evident that he's charting a course to not just meet, but exceed them. His journey is a testament to his dedication, talent, and the promise of a future bright with accomplishments in the world of competitive shooting.

Todd Hitch is a remarkable sporting clays shooter from Tennessee. His talent with a shotgun is nothing short of extraordinary, making him a force in the world of clay shooting. In 2023, Todd proudly represented Team USA, a testament to his exceptional skills and dedication to the sport. One of his most notable achievements was clinching the gold medal at the 2023 Junior World FITASC Championship.  Todd's passion for sporting clays and his impressive track record made him a star in the world of competitive shooting, and he is undoubtedly a name to watch out for.

Tom John has achieved remarkable feats in both his shooting career and the glitzy world of Hollywood. In 2023, he proudly assumed the role of Captain for Team USA's Super Vet concurrent, a testament to his unwavering dedication and expertise in the sport. Tom's dedication at the gun clubs have made him a trailblazer in the discipline. Beyond his shooting success, he's in the thrilling realm of Hollywood, where he's carved out a niche for himself as a daredevil stuntman. His fearless performances in some of the industry's biggest blockbuster films have solidified his status as a go-to talent for high-octane action sequences.

Nicolas Berry is a remarkable clay shooter whose passion and dedication have propelled him to great heights in the sport. With nine years of relentless practice and determination, Nicolas has honed his shooting skills to perfection. Recently, he achieved a significant milestone by gaining American citizenship, solidifying his place in the shooting community. Nicolas's exceptional talent earned him a spot on Team USA FITASC for the first time as an alternate, where he seized the opportunity to showcase his prowess on the international stage. To everyone's awe, he secured a remarkable third-place finish at the prestigious World FITASC championship, cementing his status as a rising star in the sport. Undeterred by success, Nicolas ventured into entrepreneurship, purchasing and operating his own gun club. Through this venture, he aspires to create a nurturing environment for aspiring clay shooters and share his passion for the sport with the community. Nicolas Berry's journey is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and chasing one's dreams to achieve greatness.