PART ONE OF A FIVE-PART SERIES:
MORGANTOWN, W.Va.
Ginny Thrasher
Everyone has a very unique journey to success, but I would say that mine is more of a typical hometown America story," Thrasher told me as she prepares for the 2016 Olympics, which begin this week. "I did learn to shoot at 14 in a tractor shed."
Dave Johnson
Dave is my go-to guy as a member of the U.S. National Team. He will be the Team Leader for all of shooting at the Olympic Games," Thrasher said. "I have known him for the last few years now and it is once again great to be able to work with professionals who have been in my place at WVU as well as representing their country."
Jon Hammond
Nico Campriani, Petra Zublasing
Ziva Dvorsak
It is extremely comforting to know that other Mountaineers have been in this place before. I think it gives great credit to the strength of the West Virginia University rifle program and also gives me great confidence that I am preparing in the best way possible," Thrasher said. "Going to international matches and seeing people who are current and graduated team members is the best feeling. I really know that we share a bond that is across nationalities, and it gives the sport a great community feel."
I’m a firm believer of focusing on the right things at the right time," she said. "For me, I will have to focus on my process every day leading up to the Games and especially during my events."
In her first season, Ginny Thrasher won an individual NCAA shooting title. - WVU ATHLETICS
n one word… overwhelming," Thrasher said, trying to put her experience into perspective. "This summer has become a whirlwind of activity since making the Olympic team. It has been a great time enjoying the moment and being able to share the excitement with my friends and family. I have traveled a lot so far this summer, already having gone to Rio, Munich, and Luxembourg."
For me, the Olympics is a great learning experience. I am trying to soak in all the information possible while still enjoying the moment," she said. "The unique part of the Olympics is it is every sport and every country and therefore unlike any other match I will compete in. I believe that being able to positively represent my country in such a unique atmosphere is the best part about this opportunity."
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