by Paolo Manuel C. Fule
The grit and power of determination to pursue one’s passion is what drives this young girl every day to continue her love for her sports. This holds true to this young athlete from Cavite and a source of pride for their province as she embarks on her quest for the World Shoot tournament.
Leanna Kaitlyn Ferrer Palma was born on November 1, 2016 in General Trias City, Province Of Cavite to Ms. Ann Kathy Ferrer and Mr. Leonard Anthony Palma. The Grade 2 pupil at Far Eastern University Cavite is into Practical Shooting Sports and will join a series of tournament qualifiers to join the World Shoot Match 2025 in Ilo-Ilo.
Paolo: How do you balance your sports and your studies?
Tactical Leanna: Balancing sports and studies, especially with Practical Shooting Sports in the mix, is a breeze thanks to my parents’ planning. They crafted a detailed schedule that allocates time for practice and study sessions, prioritize my tasks, and ensure I stay organized. They also built flexibility into the plan to accommodate unexpected events and make sure I get the rest and nutrition I need. By handling the logistics and coordinating with my coaches and teachers, they help me keep both my academic and shooting performance on track.
Paolo: What is your most unforgettable game?
Tactical Leanna: The most memorable game for me was the Philippine Coast Guard 2023 Airsoft Shoot Festival Level 2 PSMOC Sanctioned Match. Absolutely, I’d love to share my unforgettable experience! This event was extraordinary for several reasons, but what made it truly unforgettable was the intense challenge and the surprise element of the match.
The competition featured eight rigorous stages, each designed to test our skills and strategy. However, the surprise stage, where I had to engage all the targets inside a bus, was where things got especially thrilling. Imagine navigating through tight quarters, making split-second decisions, and adapting to the chaotic environment inside the bus. It was both exhilarating and demanding, and it truly put my abilities to the test. Winning as the champion in the Single Hi-Capa Division in the Super Junior Category was a moment of immense pride. On top of that, receiving the Youngest Shooter Award from the Philippine Coast Guard made it even more special. It wasn’t just about the victory; it was about overcoming the challenges, mastering the stages, and proving my skills in such a prestigious event. This match will always hold a special place in my heart because it showcased not only my growth in the sport but also the incredible support and recognition from a respected institution.
Paolo: What are your hobbies aside from your sports?
Tactical Leanna: Painting, Swimming, Roller Skate Boarding, Gymnastic.
Paolo: Who are your idols in this sports?
Tactical Leanna: International shooters like: Jerry Miculek, Gorka Ibañez, Eric Grauffel and Tactical Mia where I get inspired more in practical shooting sports and making my social media name as Tactical Leanna in Facebook and Youtube. Local Shooters like: Jethro Dionisio, Edcel Gino, Bro Tecson, Khalil Viray, Jetro Valmorida and of course my coaches coach Emz Ricalde, Instructor Monzky Lupig Motiano, Clyde Santos, Clint Santos and of course sir Allen Marcos.
Paolo: What made you like this sports?
Tactical Leanna: I fell in love with Practical Shooting Sports during the pandemic in 2020, when I was just five years old. Watching my dad clean his gear and practice dryfire was so captivating that I couldn’t wait to dive in myself. We started with Nerf guns, but soon my parents found professional trainers who could guide me as a young shooter. My coach, Emz, was incredibly motivating and helped me develop my gun safety fundamentals. This led me to my debut match—a Level 2 PSMOC Classifier Match with 8 challenging stages hosted by Lordman Leather Craft. It wasn’t just any match; it was a thrilling, big event that ignited my passion for the sport.
Tactical Leanna Leanna Kaitlyn Palma hope to be a Businesswoman in the future. On September 21-22, she will join the UAAG 10 GRAND MASTER CUP at CAGAYAN DE ORO and on October 6, 2024 at the 5th NORTH HOBBY EXPO, BAGUIO COUNTRY CLUB. On November 15-17, 2024 the 1st GOV. ARTHUR “TOTO” DEFENSOR JR CUP, ILOILO SPORTS COMPLEX.
Email the author at: paolomanuelfule@yahoo.com
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