Shooting star sets her sights on success

Pinjarra Senior High School’s Harper Floyd has been selected to join Shooting Australia’s prestigious Junior Pathways National Squad for pistol shooting.

Harper is one of only two shooters from WA chosen for the squad, marking a significant achievement in her young sporting career. She is joined on the squad by Penrhos College student Caitlin Worth.

 The Year 11’s journey in competitive shooting began just over two years ago, inspired by her father’s passion for the sport.  

Harper said that balancing school, work, and training is no easy feat, but she has found a way to manage it all.  

“My dad shoots as a hobby, so I was introduced to pistol shooting through him, and then joined the Murray Districts Pistol Club,” she said. 

 “I currently shoot two days per week at the moment, but coming up to a competition I will shoot an extra day during the week. 

“I am quite busy because I also have a job and am doing ATAR. I somehow find time to squish in the homework!”  

Harper’s commitment to the sport is paying off, as she prepares for a major challenge at the International Shooting Sport Federation Nationals, in Sydney in May, where she will represent Western Australia in three different pistol teams: the junior sports pistol team, the junior air pistol team, and the adult rapid-fire team. This is a selection event for the Pistol World Championships. 

Her selection at multiple levels for Sydney highlights her versatility and determination. 

Support has played a crucial role in her journey, with her mother being her biggest champion.

“My mum is definitely my biggest supporter. She supports me and follows me around the country to help me pursue my sport,” Harper said. 

“My coaches and other athletes are also a huge support for me, even athletes from other states have been great supporters. We are lucky to be in a sporting field that is as supportive as pistol shooting.” 

With her sights set on future success, Harper remains focused and disciplined, ensuring she is always prepared for competition.  

“The night before a competition or a shoot, I like to make sure everything is organised and ready to go for the next day, so I can have a stress-free morning,” she said. 

“I like to make sure all of my schoolwork is done during the day and when I have some free time so that I can concentrate on shooting and not be distracted while I am there.”