Sports need women and ‘these girls can’ 

Women Redefining the UK Sporting Landscape

Across the UK, the face of sport is evolving. Women are stepping confidently into arenas that were once considered off-limits, fuelled by determination and a strong sense of belonging. From packed stadiums cheering on women’s football to the growing prominence of female rugby and cricket teams, women are helping to reshape the sporting landscape. International movements such as #ThisGirlCan have caused a ripple effect and many sports are now putting women at the forefront. BASC is proud to be playing its part in this through our Women in Shooting initiative.

Breaking Barriers in the World of Shooting Sports

Like many traditional sports, shooting has often been viewed as male dominated. But women have long played a vital role in the shooting world, perhaps not always in the limelight, but their contributions have been integral to the success of a shoot day. I’ve been in the shooting field for some 40 years, and early on you tended to find most women in the picking-up team or the beating line. Yes, at that time there were lady Guns, too, but they were few and far between.

A New Era for Women in Shooting

Now, though, we’re in a very different place; more women are stepping on to the peg, working in gamekeeping and delivering coaching and loading.

This shift isn’t about rewriting history; it’s about building on a foundation that’s always been there. Today, more women are picking up a shotgun or rifle than ever before, and BASC is here to support them every step of the way. In fact, we now have more female members than ever.

Why BASC Rebranded to ‘Women in Shooting’

To reflect this momentum, BASC rebranded its Ladies Shooting programme in 2023 to Women in Shooting. It wasn’t only a name change; it was a reflection of how language matters. The update brought us in line with the terminology used across wider sport, from football to athletics, and reflects our commitment to ensuring shooting is accessible, relevant and open to all.

Creating Opportunities for Female Shooters

But our initiative is about much more than a name. It’s about creating meaningful, practical opportunities for women in shooting sports and associated activities. Whether they’re picking up a gun for the first time or have years of experience, our taster days, training sessions and networking events offer the support, encouragement and community needed to thrive.

Over the years, we’ve seen first-hand how powerful that first step can be. Many women who attend a BASC taster day go on to become regular Guns and passionate advocates for the sport. Some progress even further into professional roles as instructors, competitors or gamekeepers. Their journeys showcase the breadth and richness of the shooting community in the UK today.

Social Media and Global Support for Women in Shooting

Social media has also helped shift perceptions. The International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Instagram account is a perfect example, filled with images of women competing at the highest levels of international shooting. They are calm, focused and formidable, demonstrating that shooting is about precision, discipline and control, qualities that transcend gender. Their presence is a powerful inspiration for newcomers and young shooters alike. I attended a webinar with more than 600 women from 80 countries getting together to promote women in shooting sports.

Driving Inclusion and Representation Within BASC

BASC is committed to ensuring the sector reflects the diversity of those who take part. That starts with us. Women make up 50% of BASC staff, including our deputy CEO Caroline Bedell, and they hold key leadership positions within our council. Our vice-chair, Claire Sadler, is a strong and vocal advocate for Women in Shooting, helping to ensure that representation isn’t only symbolic, it’s influential.

Embracing Diversity to Strengthen Shooting Sports

Shooting is rooted in tradition, growing through inclusion and strengthened by diversity. BASC is helping to ensure it is open to everyone, and stronger because of it.