Asia Hoile Champions Success as OU Rifle Club President

*Asia Hoile, centre, with the Oxford University Rifle Club*

In the world of target shooting, Asia Hoile (2021 DPhil Interdisciplinary Bioscience) has emerged as a trailblazer and an inspiration. As President and Blues Captain of the Oxford University Rifle Club (OURC), Asia has not only achieved remarkable personal success but has also spearheaded efforts to create a more inclusive and thriving community within the club. Her passion for the sport and commitment to breaking barriers have made her a role model for aspiring shooters everywhere.

Asia's journey in target shooting began six years ago when someone challenged her abilities based on her gender. She explains: "I started target shooting six years ago when someone bet me I couldn't hit the target because I'm a girl! I'm now very proud to be President and Blues captain of OURC for 2022-24, in addition to representing the Welsh National team in three disciplines. Target shooting is one of the most inclusive sports, allowing people of all genders and ages to compete side by side. There are even adaptive disciplines for visually impaired and blind shooters. Over the past year, OURC has had great success in increasing the number and diversity of members by creating an inclusive environment and purchasing kit suitable for smaller club members. We also won our women's varsity for the first time since 2016 with our highest score yet. The team really is like a second family!"

Asia's personal achievements in target shooting have been numerous and are evidence of her dedication and skill. Representing Wales, she excelled in the Home Nations vs RAF matches, securing top scores for her team in both short-range events and overall. Her precision and focus have also earned her numerous accolades, including victories in the Oxfordshire division 4 pairs and the Women's Varsity, where her team achieved their first win since 2016 with the highest score in the varsity's history. Most recently, in June of this year, Asia was awarded a place on the Welsh Target Shooting Federation Development Programme and has been selected as part of the Wales under-25 team to compete in the Under-25 Home Countries Invitational Match.

As a member of the Welsh National team in multiple disciplines, Asia has proven herself on the national stage. Her performances have earned her selection consideration for prestigious events such as the National Match for match rifle (Elcho) and the National Matches for target rifle (the National and the Mackinnon). In addition, she has proudly represented Oxfordshire, Hampshire, and the Oxfordshire County Women's team, further cementing her status as a shooting prodigy.

Under Asia's leadership, OURC has undergone a remarkable transformation, fostering growth, diversity, and excellence within its ranks. The club's achievements and initiatives reflect Asia's unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all members.

With 125 new members in the Michaelmas term, the club reached a record high, surpassing previous years' enrolments. The introduction of a dedicated Freshers’ officer provided new members with valuable guidance and a specialised programme tailored to beginners. The club expanded its competitive opportunities, organising matches for 2nd and 3rd teams and offering fullbore shooting training for all abilities.

Asia's determination to promote gender equality and accessibility led to fruitful collaborations with organisations such as ‘This Girl Can’, resulting in free taster sessions and an increased proportion of women members within the club. The club's commitment to inclusivity extended to visually impaired shooters, as grants were secured to provide specialised equipment and establish a Visually Impaired shooting programme.

The club's efforts did not go unnoticed, as they were honoured with the Kitlocker Club of the Year 2023 award and were shortlisted for the inaugural Diversity and Inclusion award at the university's sports awards. The strengthened ties with the Oxfordshire Rifle Association highlight the recognition and support OURC has garnered within the shooting community.

Asia Hoile's journey as the President of OURC exemplifies the power of passion, perseverance, and inclusivity in sports. Her personal achievements as a shooter and her contributions to the growth and diversification of the club have left a mark. Through her leadership, OURC has witnessed unprecedented success, emerging as a powerhouse in target shooting while fostering an environment of inclusivity.

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