Ladies of Long Range: How West Coast Long Range Is Building a More Inclusive Shooting Future

A Space to Grow, A Place to Belong

There’s a quiet shift happening in shooting sports—one that isn’t driven by scores or sponsorships, but by access and inclusivity. And at the heart of that shift are events like Ladies of Long Range, a clinic hosted by Mark Zorich and his team at West Coast Long Range. Known for their commitment to growing the sport through structured education and practical field application, WCLR has become a hub for precision shooting on the West Coast. This event was a perfect reflection of that mission.

Held on leased land just down the road from the clubhouse of Quail Point Hunt Club in Zamora, California, the clinic provided a professional, real-world environment without the pressure of formal competition. The site was open, well-equipped, and most importantly—welcoming. Ladies from all walks of life showed up to spend a day learning, shooting, and building confidence in an environment built specifically for them. And they absolutely delivered.

Laying the Groundwork—From Classroom to Range

The day began at 8 a.m. with a classroom session led by Mark Zorich, WCLR’s founder and lead instructor. Instead of launching into a technical lecture, Mark facilitated a conversation—breaking down rifle systems, optics, ergonomics, and fundamentals in a way that felt accessible and approachable. No assumptions. No gatekeeping. Just good information, shared openly. After the classroom portion, the group transitioned to the firing line to zero rifles. What struck me immediately was the diversity—not just in the backgrounds of the shooters, but in their reasons for attending. Some were preparing for big game hunts and others were curious about competitive long-range shooting. Some were simply there to try something new and connect with like-minded people. That variety in motivation is exactly what makes events like this so important—they meet people where they are.

Tools, Skills, and Support

The range of equipment on the line was just as varied as the participants. Entry-level hunting rifles sat beside custom PRS builds and even an ELR setup. Some ladies brought their own gear, while others used high-end loaner rifles provided by the clinic—another example of how WCLR removes barriers to entry. It wasn’t about who had the best setup; it was about learning and growing. Four coaches worked the line throughout the day: Mark Zorich, Shannon Meredith, Michael Moore, and Jerry Wasemiller. Their approach was patient, hands-on, and never overbearing. Whether dialing in a scope or getting behind the rifle to assist with form, they brought calm expertise to every interaction. That kind of coaching—quiet but confident—is what builds trust, especially in new shooters.

Pushing Limits—Together

As the day progressed, shooters began moving downrange. Starting around 300 yards and eventually stretching out to 1,043, the course offered a real-world test of the fundamentals. Conditions weren’t easy. Temperatures climbed into the 90s, and the wind—steady at the line—became less predictable the farther the targets stretched. Still, shot after shot found steel. Some shooters connected right away. Others took a few tries. But the most remarkable moments weren’t just the hits—they were the handoffs, the coaching, and the encouragement coming from the ladies to their left and right. If someone’s scope maxed out, another shooter lent her rifle. If someone struggled with turret adjustments or setup, a new friend stepped in to help. This wasn’t just a training day. It was a community forming in real time.

Voices from the Line: Michelle Bowman’s Perspective

A few days after the event, I caught up with Michelle Bowman—a firearms instructor and founder of Mama Bear Defense, . This was her third time attending Ladies of Long Range, and her story perfectly captured the deeper value of the event.

During the morning intros, I heard her mention she had a Second Annual Ladies Freedom Shoot of her own coming up. That piqued my interest immediately (you can check it out here). I knew I had to talk with her. Michelle told me long-range shooting isn’t her main focus—her background is in defense training—but she keeps attending because these clinics offer something unique: the chance to learn, shoot, and connect. “Making friends as an adult can be hard,” she said. “Each time I go, I meet someone new.” She added that every clinic teaches her something—not just about shooting, but about the people around her, and even herself.

Her first event wasn’t without struggle. Her ammo wasn’t grouping, and it was frustrating. But instead of sending her home discouraged, Mark stayed 45 minutes after the event to troubleshoot with her, try different loads, and get things sorted. “It’s coaching like that,” she said, “that makes you want to come back. You feel like you’re supported. You feel like you belong.”

Michelle’s story is exactly why these events matter.

Looking Ahead

Representation isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a catalyst. When ladies are given space to step into precision shooting without judgment, surrounded by encouragement and patient coaching, they don’t just participate—they thrive. They bring new energy, new perspectives, and new growth to the community.

Events like Ladies of Long Range, backed by the mission of West Coast Long Range, aren’t just training days. They’re a glimpse into the future of the sport—a future that’s bigger, better, and more inclusive than ever.

I’ll be attending more WCLR events throughout the year and continuing to document how these spaces are evolving—and more importantly, how they’re empowering new shooters to step confidently onto the line. If this event was any indication, there’s a lot more to look forward to.

FREE VIDEOS AND PHOTOS FROM EVENT: CLICK HERE

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Support Us, Our Supporters, and Who We Support

If you’d like to support us, you can:

– Follow, like, and comment on our socials: Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. Your support helps us advocate for the long-range precision shooting community—amplifying its voice, expanding its reach, and ensuring it continues to grow for the next generation.

– Become a Sponsor by reaching out to us via email at blackplagueprecision@gmail.com.We partner with companies and individuals who believe in pushing the boundaries of what's possible in precision shooting and want to be part of something meaningful.

– Help us support the kids. In 2025, we’re proud to stand behind Guardian Long Range—a nonprofit dedicated to supporting children in foster care through competitive shooting events and community-driven fundraising.Help us raise awareness, build support, and make a real difference in the lives of these kids.

Lastly, a big thank you to all the  Supporters of Black Plague Precision—our followers, sponsors, and community partners. Your support helps us continue bringing the best in long-range precision shooting, reloading, and lifestyle content.

Thank you for being a part of the Black Plague Precision community.

-----------------------------------------

Black Plague Precision Disclaimer

By accessing this website, reading articles, or viewing video content, you acknowledge and accept the following terms:

The content provided on this website (including but not limited to videos, articles, reloading data, technical guides, and other information) is intended for informational and demonstration purposes only. Do not attempt any of the processes, procedures, or techniques shown or described without proper training, experience, and appropriate safety measures.

All gunsmithing, ammunition reloading, and firearm modifications should be conducted by qualified and licensed professionals. Black Plague Precision is not responsible for any harm, injury, property damage, or other consequences resulting from individuals attempting any activities or procedures based on the information provided on this website.

By engaging with this content, you agree that you are solely responsible for your own safety, actions, and property. Black Plague Precision disclaims all liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from the use or misuse of the information provided herein.

Stay safe, use caution, and consult professionals when in doubt.