Olivia Shane began shooting archery at age 4 and competing in shotgun (SCTP/ATA) at age 9. Two years later, at age 11, she added competitive air rifle and smallbore. At 14, she entered the SASP action shooting world. Looking at her family, it’s no surprise this rising shooting star started shooting at such a young age. Her dad is an avid marksman, police officer, hunter and SWAT sniper. Both of her grandfathers and uncles hunted as well. Spending time outdoors was very much a part of Olivia’s upbringing and family time—most of her family were members of various shooting ranges and conservation clubs throughout the state.
On top of that strong support, Olivia has met a great many mentors and friends across her various competition disciplines. One person who really stands out in Olivia’s life is three-time Olympic biathlete Lanny Barnes. “I was my biggest enemy when it came to shooting,” Olivia said. “I’ve been able to overcome it with help from my friend and mentor Lanny Barnes… I always managed to find a way to put myself down even if I had a good day in shooting. I learned quickly I was my worst critic. Now after training, studying and working on my mental game, all of my shooting has overall improved.”
Mental management is key in all types of shooting, and that improvement in her mental game is Olivia’s proudest accomplishment, despite several titles. Her first major win was in singles trap in 2017—Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) female rookie state and national champion. She placed third in smallbore in 2020’s Junior Olympic Qualifier, but didn’t receive an invite due to COVID capacity restrictions. In 2021, Olivia tied for third in JV Ladies double trap at SCTP Nationals.
Considering her diverse experience, Olivia has a wide array of gear. She uses a CZ All-American shotgun in 12 gauge, Pardini GPR1 Top Air Rifle and Anschutz .22 LR. Her absolute must-have on the rifle range is a jacket spoon. “[It] makes buttoning my jacket 10x easier.” It’s the little things, right?
Drawing from her own experiences and insecurities, Olivia reminds new competitors to “just have fun. Don’t stress out about winning or your placements especially if you are just starting. A positive mental game is key in this sport.”
Shooting isn’t the only thing Olivia is involved in. She is an avid hunter and fisherwoman, shows goats in 4-H and is taking lessons to get her pilot’s license. Recently she obtained her SCTP shotgun coaching certificate and attended her first SHOT Show as a staff writer for Junior Shooters Magazine.
She is also very passionate about the D.C. Project and the preservation of the Second Amendment. She attended her first trip to D.C. with the D.C. project at age 12. “Going to D.C. was and still is one of the most amazing experiences ever and I love going every year if shooting doesn't collide with the dates we go. I have met so many wonderful women in the group with me. That's the one thing I absolutely love about shooting sports, you meet so many amazing people and develop lifelong friendships.”
Looking to the future, Olivia ultimately aspires to be an Olympian like her mentor Lanny. Her goals include shooting at the collegiate level and joining ROTC. She is also considering the Air Force after high school.
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