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In this episode, Justin Barker talks with Todd Hitch for a candid and upbeat episode about what it really takes to stay at the top of competitive sporting clays. Todd shares the mindset, discipline, and preparation behind his recent success, including his back-to-back U.S. Open wins, his approach to sleep, nutrition, and mental focus, and why consistency matters more than short-term momentum. They also talk about the technical side of shooting — from body rotation and handling wind to why Todd trusts his Beretta DT11 — plus the importance of sportsmanship, professionalism, and the relationships that shape a shooting career. Todd also tells the unforgettable story of winning the King’s Cup in Spain, including the massive historic trophy and the wild airport journey bringing it home. It’s a mix of tournament stories, practical insight, and personality that gives listeners a closer look at one of the sport’s top competitors.

Clay Target Vision is a family-owned business specializing in premium Pilla Performance Eyewear for clay target shooters. With more than 20 years of experience with Pilla products, Clay Target Vision brings extensive knowledge of shooting lenses, frames, lens technology, and how different lens filtrations can help shooters perform in changing light and target conditions. More than just an eyewear retailer, Clay Target Vision focuses on helping shooters find the right visual solution for their individual needs. From recreational shooters to serious competitors, their combination of product knowledge, customer service, and experience in the clay target sports has made ClayTargetVision.com a trusted resource for shooters looking to improve what they see on the range. Check them out at ClayTargetVision.com.

Tom Seay is officially a World Champion. In this episode, I talk with my good friend Tom Seay after one of the biggest moments of his shooting career—winning the 2026 World FITASC Championship. We talk about the road to the championship, the pressure of competing against the best sporting clays shooters in the world, the mental side of FITASC, and what it takes to perform when every target matters. Tom also takes us inside the experience of competing on the world stage, the moments that defined the championship, and what it felt like when he realized he had won it all.

In this episode, we talk with one of the brightest young talents in sporting clays today, Brad Sutton Jr. As one of the nation's top junior competitors, Brad's dedication and relentless commitment to improving his game have set him apart from the competition. From competing on some of the biggest stages in the sport to representing Team USA in Portugal, his journey is an inspiration to shooters of every age. We discuss how Brad first discovered sporting clays, the countless hours of practice that have shaped him into the competitor he is today, and the goals he's set for the future. He shares what it's like competing as a junior shooter, the lessons he's learned along the way, and the people who have helped him reach new heights. Whether you're a competitive shooter or simply enjoy hearing stories of hard work, discipline, and determination, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Most young shooters dream of making it to the top — Connor Daniel’s journey from a kid shooting with Zach Kienbaum to winning Georgia State is proof it’s possible. At just 18, he's competing in NSCA, on Team USA, and shooting thousands of targets — but his secret isn't just hours behind the gun; it's the mindset he’s cultivated along the way. In this episode, Connor pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to excel in sporting clays at the highest level. You’ll discover how mental resilience, routines, and quick recovery from missed shots separate mere good shooters from the best in the world. We break down his training habits, the importance of coaching, and how maintaining focus under pressure can elevate your game — no matter your age or experience. We explore Connor’s unique approach to competition, including his focus on process over outcome, the role of mental preparation, and why confidence rooted in routine beats raw talent every time. Plus, learn why he’s already thinking beyond shooting — planning his future in engineering, coaching, and helping others master the sport that’s given him purpose. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just starting out, this story will inspire you to take strategic, mental, and technical control—because success isn’t just about how many targets you shoot, but how you shoot them.

Most shooters underestimate just how much mental toughness and strategic practice accelerate success. Dylan Thompson, a rising star in sporting clays, reveals how he skyrocketed to top levels before turning 21—thanks to relentless focus, expert coaching, and understanding the true nature of confidence. In this episode, gun in hand and mindset locked, Dylan shares the secrets behind his rapid rise, from winning major junior titles to competing among world champions. You'll discover the crucial role of tiny technical tweaks emphasized by his coach Kevin DeMichael, why spending hundreds of thousands of rounds is just part of the journey, and how confidence—both mental and physical—can make or break your performance.

Warning BAD LANGUAGE!  Recorded in June 2025 The best part of shooting has never been the gear or the photos, it’s the shared code: be safe, be respectful, and compete like it matters. We sit down with Gary Fitzjarrell and Derrick Mein for a raw, wide-ranging talk that starts with real life health updates and quickly turns into what’s happening to sporting clays, trap shooting, and the broader clay target community as the sport changes.  We get specific about range etiquette and shotgun safety: why idling carts, trashing property, and walking around with closed guns isn’t just annoying, it’s how accidents happen. Along the way we share a “science project” that actually matters, chronograph testing frozen shotgun shells to see what cold weather does to velocity and ammo performance.  From there, Derek talks training, travel, and staying ready for the next Olympic cycle and LA 2028, plus what changes when you switch guns and rebuild confidence. We debate course setting, why some targets turn into coin flips, and why the most fun shoots often keep it simple. Hit play, then subscribe, share this with a shooting buddy, and leave a review with the one rule you’d enforce to make the game better.

We're excited to bring Shotgun Sports USA back. Our goal is simple: tell the stories that matter, talk about what people care about, bring you the facts and connect with the people who make the sport great. Whether it's competition, hunting, industry news, or untold stories, we're here to bring you conversations worth listening to.

A highly accomplished and adaptable shooter, he has earned numerous major titles across both junior and senior divisions, proudly representing England and Great Britain on many international stages. What began as casual outings to local gun clubs with his father and friends around the age of 10 quickly developed into a deep passion. By 19, he had claimed the coveted Masters title, and by 21, he had captured every junior championship in both World Sporting and FITASC. His success carried over into the senior ranks, where he continued to add to his medal count, including victories at the Beretta World Sporting in 2019 and the Clay Shooting Classic in 2022. His impressive résumé also features silver finishes at the English Open Sporting, English Open Compak, UK Open Compak, and the British Grand Prix FITASC.

Mike Luongo has been part of the sporting clays world for a long time. He has coached some of the best young shooters in the sport and loves helping others get better. He spends as much time shooting as he can, and wants to see the sport grow. Mike’s journey started like anyone else—learning, practicing, and working hard to improve. Over the years, he’s gained a lot of experience and turned his passion into coaching and mentoring others. If you want to hear his story, learn how he got to where he is today, or improve your shooting, he’s always happy to help.

Listen as we talk about the incredible rise of junior sporting clays sensation Connor Daniel. From the great state or Georgia, Connor has accomplished more in four short years than most shooters dream of in a lifetime. With the guidance of coach Zach Kienbaum and the support of some of the best names in the shooting industry, Connor's dedication and talent have earned him a spot on the prestigious pro squad for 2025 after a phenomenal 2024 season. As a high school senior, Connor is navigating the exciting journey of finding a college that aligns with his academic and shooting goals, all while looking to dominate every tournament he attends in 2025. In this episode, we’ll discuss his rapid ascent in the sport, the role of top-tier coaching and mentorship, his standout performances, and what’s next for him. Get ready for an inspiring story of hard work, talent, and unrelenting passion for sporting clays.

Gary Fitzjarrell and Brett Seibert share their experiences hosting a major tournaments like the US Open at Northbrook Sports Club.  From carefully designing challenging yet fair targets to ensuring top-tier hospitality.  They discuss the planning required to meet the expectations of competitors as well as handling the inevitable challenges, such as addressing complaints and finding ways to improve. Please keep in mind that Gary is on this episode and there is no telling what you may hear.

Turner Parcell has cemented his place at the top of the sporting clays world in 2024, going head-to-head with some of the best in the country. A Krieghoff shooter from South Carolina, Turner has proven to be a serious competitor, consistently delivering standout performances. In this episode, we talk about his incredible season, where he secured major wins including a recent Runner Up finish at the South Central Regional in Texas, M1 at the Caribbean Classic, Jack Links, and Seminole Cup, along with a 3rd place finish at the World Sporting Championship, and several other top finishes. We also talk about Turner’s journey, his training regimen, and what it takes to be a top contender in the sport.

We’re exploring something new and exciting that’s set to revolutionize the way shooters analyze and improve their game. We’re thrilled to introduce you to a cutting-edge website that has just gone live: americanshotgunner.com. This platform is not just another shooting site; it’s a comprehensive hub for all things related to your shooting stats and performance analytics. Imagine having access to detailed insights into your shooting averages, totals, and best disciplines—all tailored to your personal data. With americanshotgunner.com, you can break down your performance in different shooting disciplines, see how you’ve shot at various events, and compare your stats against others in your class. The site offers a look into your shooting history, showing you which tournaments you’ve attended, how many targets you’ve hit, and what you excel at the most. Plus, it’s an invaluable tool for those looking to take their shooting career to the next level. If you’re a young shooter eyeing college opportunities, you can post your stats for universities and schools across the nation to see, opening doors for recruitment and scholarships. The site also includes community forums where you can connect with other shooters, share tips, and get answers to your questions from peers who understand your passion. And the best part? All these features are available to you at no cost—yes, it’s completely free! This incredible resource was developed by two shooters from Texas A&M, Joe Fanizzi and Ty Crouch, who have poured their expertise and passion into creating a platform that’s truly one of a kind. They’re here to share their journey, insights, and what motivated them to bring this innovative tool to life. So, get ready to unlock a new level of understanding and performance in your shooting journey with americanshotgunner.com.

In our latest episode, we’re joined by a two-time Olympian and world champion who takes us through his incredible journey to the Olympics for a second time. He shares insights into the rigorous qualification process and reflects on his victory at the 2022 World Championships in Croatia. Tune in for an insider's perspective on earning a coveted spot on the USA Shooting Team, as well as a discussion about the Paris Olympics and all that comes with it.