 |
About KristieHometown: Bakersfield, Calif. |
Kristie Blaylock
Behind the largest Women in the Outdoors event
in the country
NWTF: The Bakersfield Chapter hosts the largest Women in the Outdoors event in the country. What's the secret to getting so many participants?
Kristie Blaylock: Since I first got involved with the event, I've seen it grow from 35 participants to nearly 500. It really helps that the Bakersfield Chapter holds our event at the beautiful Tejon Ranch.
Our chapter is never afraid to offer a variety of new classes. This year we offered 46, including new classes like falconry, paintball, RV maneuvering and fishing in bass boats with tournament anglers. We cover most shooting classes from basic rifle to centerfire rifle and target handgun to handgun self-defense. We also have basic and advanced shotgun, as well as basic and advanced archery classes. We may even have an opportunity to offer basic scuba diving next year.
This year, we had a band one night, which the women loved. We offer camping to our participants and provide all their meals so no one has to worry about bringing food. Participants just need a place to sleep, whether in an RV or a tent, and a change of clothes. Makeup is optional. And although we stay on schedule, our event is very relaxed. Everyone just goes with the flow.
We get positive responses from starting the day with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance and "The Star Spangled Banner." Our love for God and country is important to the Bakersfield Chapter, and starting the day this way gets everyone excited and ready to go.
NWTF: What tips can you share with other chapters that want to draw more participants to events?
KB: Make sure the event is fun for everyone and has a lot of games and raffles. Get donations for raffle prizes, class materials and food, whatever you can. The more donated items you have, the better your event will be.
Place fliers about your event at local sporting goods stores. I also suggest that chapters have a booth at a local sportsmen and RV show to help get the word out.
NWTF: What's the best thing about the Women in Outdoors program?
KB: Women learn to not be afraid to try new things. I love how we get women outdoors and away from the conveniences we are used to having. I love to see the excitement on their faces and hear the excitement in their voices when they come back from their classes. I love to see mothers bring their daughters to an event and watch their relationship grow. Women in the Outdoors offers something for women of all ages. We have participants age 14 to 90.
NWTF: Why is the Women in the Outdoors program so important to you?
KB: I grew up hunting and fishing with my dad, so I always loved the outdoors. Since I grew up hunting and fishing, I thought all women did, but I was wrong. I believe women will have stronger relationships with their husbands and children if they get involved in outdoor activities.
Women in the Outdoors helps women learn to love the outdoors and share that love with their families. There is so much to see and learn when you are outside — things you would never see from a couch or a hotel room. It is exciting to see women enjoy themselves and know they will take that excitement home with them. — Melanie Swearingen