Gaye Kelsey: A Champion for the Future

Gaye Kelsey, champion pigeon shooter and lifelong hunter, keeps shooting at the center of her political life—and her marriage. In 2013, she served as co-chair of the NRA Women’s Leadership Forum Luncheon & Auction.

A Fierce Competitor With Flawless Elegance

At the age of 17, Gaye Kelsey’s father entered her into a pigeon shooting competition without telling her. She was rattled, but still only missed a single pigeon on the first day. On the second day, she hit every one—and had discovered a new passion. She has since been named the International Ladies Champion in pigeon shooting and is a lifelong competitor, esteemed by her peers for her flawless elegance and rhythm. A native Texan who is proud of her roots and heritage, Gaye enjoys a wide variety of shooting sports and outdoor activities.

Shooting Sports: A Way Of Life

Shooting isn’t just a sport for Gaye and her husband John, it’s a way of life—from the genteel fashions associated with the English hunting tradition that Gaye enjoys, to the art on her walls and her hunting dogs. Gaye’s observance of these old world customs is one way that she shows respect for the sport and to the animals she hunts. Of course, since this couple has a core love of hunting, it would be no surprise that their first date involved shooting—out of the country. John invited Gaye on an African safari, and ever since their relationship has been grounded in the sporting lifestyle.

A Friendly Guide

Gaye has witnessed the shooting sports turn from being a traditionally all-male sport, to one that’s inclusive of women. She’s a fixture at the Athena Gun Club in Houston, where she acts as a friendly guide for women just getting acquainted with shooting. In this capacity, she helps women become enthusiastic and passionate about all types of firearm and outdoor activities. She supports the NRA Women’s Leadership Forum, having served as the 2013 Luncheon & Auction Co-Chair with Melanie Pepper. Gaye and her family are proud of the resources they dedicate into protecting the Constitution and the Second Amendment.

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