Meet Lanny Barnes, also known as Lanny Oakley, an Olympian, trick shot and educator. Lanny competed in the Biathlon event in three consecutive Olympic Winter Games from 2006 to 2014, and she’s a world champion in several shooting sports, including IPSC, 3-Gun and more. Lanny is also an excellent trick shot, performing demanding and unique shooting feats that can be seen on her website (thus, her nickname “Lanny Oakley”).
Lanny’s impressive abilities don’t stop at shooting, and she wears many hats off of the range. Since 2000, Lanny has created stunning artwork through The Olympian Artist, which she uses to support various charities. She’s also a public speaker, event coordinator and celebrity chef, all with the goal of giving back to the community. Lanny often works with children and wounded veterans as well, guiding and encouraging them to live the best lives possible. She further channels this passion through mentoring and firearms education, training students from all backgrounds to push themselves and perform under duress — a challenging skill that she mastered in her time as an Olympian.
At home, Lanny is deeply connected with her family. She’s worked with her twin sister Tracy (who’s also an Olympian athlete) in multiple environments and has written several articles about hunting with family. Lanny is motivated and disciplined, and it’s evident in all aspects of her life. Read on for her answers to our six Gal Gab questions!
What does a typical day in your work life look like?
No two days are the same. My schedule usually includes training, both physically and on the range, followed by a trick-shot attempt if I have time, working on the ranch and range, planning upcoming events, competitions or world-record attempt training. I also spend time creating artwork, preparing for speaking engagements and connecting with the community that fuels everything I do.
What is the #1 piece of advice you would give other females who want to break into your industry?
Be confident in your abilities and focus on building real skill. Let your work ethic and authenticity speak louder than anything else, and don’t be afraid to take up space in a traditionally male-dominated field. Consistency and resilience will set you apart.
What motivates you?
The pursuit of growth and the challenge of seeing how far I can push myself – mentally, physically and professionally. I’m also deeply motivated by inspiring other women to step outside their comfort zones and realize they’re capable of more than they think.
What is the most unexpected thing you’ve learned while working in your industry?
How powerful our community is. I expected the same challenges I faced in the Olympic arena, but what surprised me most was the level of support, mentorship and genuine relationships within the outdoor and shooting industries.
What is your favorite product in the outdoor or shooting market right now?
My favorite product in the outdoor and shooting market right now is the STP line of handguns. STP (Sport Target Pistol) pistols are precision-built, German-made competition handguns known for their incredible accuracy, clean trigger breaks and high-end fit and finish. They’re built on refined 1911/2011-style platforms with frames and slides machined from billet steel and hand-fit for consistency – making them ideal for serious competition and performance shooting. I’m personally going to use them in a few World Record attempts coming up!
Let’s have some fun … what weapon would you use to battle a giant?
A sling shot – because it worked for David. Sometimes all you have to do is have good shot placement and a little faith.
Follow Lanny Barnes at LannyOakley.com or on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.
Madeleine Golob, formerly “Anna,” is our intern at the “Women’s Outdoor News,” and manages the “Gal Gab” column. She also pens features and takes care of our Pinterest activities. Madeleine is a high school student who loves to write, read, study her family’s genealogy and play any musical instrument she can get her hands on. She also enjoys working Action Pistol matches while her parents compete and dreams of becoming a historian and writer. View all posts by Madeleine Golob
