the senior’s

Joshua Case

What types of planes do you fly? And what made you want to learn how?

“I fly Cessa 172s and 172n models. For my future career, I want to fly for the military. I’d like to eventually fly the F-16 or F-18 fighter jet.”

Is there a certain flying status you’ve achieved so far?

“I am a certified solo pilot. That means I have passed forty hours of flight time and I’m able to fly during the day by myself.”

What’s been the hardest thing for you to learn?

“Being able to adapt to the circumstances that are presented and focus on what needs to be prioritized.”

Do you have any advice for someone else thinking about starting up this talent?

“It’s a very challenging hobby but stick with it! Consistency will be your best friend.”

Thanks so much for agreeing to this, Josh! Is there anything else you’d like to mention like a memorable moment or funny story?

“On my solo flight, I was doing pattern work which is take off and landings, and I was instructed to report to the Grumman-AA aircraft. I said ‘Roger following the Gremlin, 4279 Foxtrot.’ Basically everyone listening in on the coms started laughing because I was so nervous that I called the guy flying in front of me a gremlin.”

Kayla Meyer

When did you get into air pistol and what exactly made you do it?

“I started it in the summer of 2020 after my cousin introduced me to the sport. I knew I liked shooting and had a natural talent for it because a few years ago I went to the gun range with my Poppop and he taught me how to shoot. I was able to shoot ten bullseyes in a row with no previous practice.”

Wow, that’s really impressive. What’s your favorite thing about the sport?

“My favorite part is the mental challenge involved. It’s 90% mental as the focus is on not anticipating shooting the shot because that could throw it.”

Do you compete or is it just a hobby?

“I am on a team, however, it’s an individual sport. I compete every month and then, if I qualify, I go to the Junior Olympics which is a national competition.”

Do you have any advice to someone else learning air pistol?

“Don’t give up! I know that sounds cliché, but it can be tempting to give up just because you might not be as good as you want to be at first or aren’t progressing at the rate you want to be. But with practice, you will achieve your goals!”