Gunning For Glory: Ella Kelly Thru the Lens
Amidst the rugged grandeur of Arizona's White Mountains, where the sunlight bathes the terrain in hues of gold and amber, a figure stands out against the untamed backdrop. Ella Kelly, a 15-year-old cowgirl with a spirit as wild as the landscape itself, emerges like a lone rider on an unending trail. Through my lens, I've captured her essence – a snapshot of her journey unfolding like the gripping chapters of a Western novel.
Ella's tale is one of ambition, grit, and a bond with the saddle that can't be broken. Embracing Cowboy Mounted Shooting with the natural prowess of a seasoned gunslinger, she swiftly ascended the ranks, proudly standing at L5. In this adrenaline-fueled sport, where precision intertwines with exhilaration, achieving that L6 is akin to hitting a bullseye in the midst of a raging storm. It's a testament to not only accuracy but also the ability to maintain focus and control amidst the chaos.
Nationally, Ella stands solidly among the top 20, showcasing her unwavering dedication and impressive skill. On the global stage, she's staking her claim at a solid 4th. But what makes Ella a standout isn’t just her quick draw or her pinpoint precision. It's the way she rides with a confidence that defies her youth. Those sharp brows frame eyes that burn with a fire that won't be tamed. The subtle tilt of her head as she tears across the arena tells you all you need to know about her determination. She grips that gun like a modern outlaw claiming her territory, a blend of old-school grit and new-age charisma. But even with all that swagger, her face remains a mask of unwavering focus – a testament to the calm thriving within the storm.
Last month, Las Vegas bore witness as Ella graced the arena of the CMSA Lakota Western U.S. Championship. The charged atmosphere provided the perfect stage for her magnetic performance. While victory remained elusive throughout the weekend, Ella's presence was akin to a lightning strike – fierce and charged with energy. Across that rugged battleground, she rode like a tempest, giving all a thrilling glimpse of the exciting journey that awaits.
Then, out in the tranquil town of Linden, Arizona – a place where a rural town’s spirit lingers in the breeze and time moves at its own pace - Ella continued her adventure. With the morning sun embracing her, Ella rode as if she were one with the course, securing the Open Ladies Overall champion for the weekend. The victory lingered in the air, a testament to her prowess and a nod to the enduring Western spirit.
In my time behind the camera, capturing shots of countless cowboys and cowgirls against the sprawling rodeo canvas, Ella takes her place as my favorite subject. Looking ahead, waiting for our paths to cross once more, I'm filled with excitement for the adventures that await this young gunslinger. The road forward stretches like a desert highway, full of opportunities. With a horse to guide and targets to aim for, Ella has the spirit to blaze her own trails.
And let me tell you, Ella's story is far from finished. Just like those legendary figures from the old-school West, she's ready to ascend to greater heights, tackle tougher challenges, and hit those targets with even greater precision. When she enters my frame again, remember my words – that L6 won't remain a distant dream; it will stand as a bold testament to her resolute spirit. Ella's journey is still making its mark on the history of Cowboy Mounted Shooting – a tale of determination, triumph, and a cowgirl shattering every limit in her path.
