Industry News

Nurturing a legacy, honoring it and finding ways to carry it into the future while respecting what has been achieved. Aja Gullo’s journey is about more than following in her father’s footsteps; it’s about redefining what that legacy means today, bringing it into the modern world and shaping its next chapter. She’s doing what so many in her position might not have the courage to do: competing with the weight of legacy on her shoulders while making her own mark.

The passing of the torch is always a powerful moment, and Aja’s doing it in her own way by embracing both the old and the new. She’s still rooted in the traditions of the BPCR world but she’s looking at it through a fresh, modern lens. It’s this balance of honoring the past and creating the future that will define the strength and longevity of the Gullo family legacy

Aja’s ambitions – bringing the NRA and BPCR Long Range shooting back together, diving into competition herself and growing the business into new avenues – are exactly what the BPCR community needs. She’s not just preserving her Dad’s legacy; she’s evolving it, weaving her own experiences, ideas, and energy into the fabric of it. The beauty of legacy, especially in a family business, is that it doesn’t stand still. It grows and adapts.

The multiple world championships, the Castle Trophy and her father’s induction into the NRA Hall of Fame are monumental achievements, and it’s clear that Aja has a deep admiration for them. However, instead of seeing those accomplishments as an impossible standard, she sees them as a foundation and something to build on. It’s inspiring that she doesn’t just want to maintain the status quo; she wants to push the boundaries of what’s possible and lead the charge into new opportunities for the industry.

Aja’s perspective is spot on. Attraction over promotion – that’s a key point. In a world that moves fast, where attention spans are short, attracting the younger generation to the rich history and legacy of BPCR is essential but it’s not just about selling a sport. It’s about showing them the value and passion behind it. BPCR isn’t just about shooting; it’s about craftsmanship, discipline, history, a community and a family. Those are things that resonate deeply with younger people, especially when they’re shown the personal rewards of being part of something bigger than themselves.

Her belief in mentorship is also crucial. In the past, many traditions, crafts, and skills were passed down through personal interaction, hands-on experience, and a commitment to teaching. Aja’s emphasis is on mentoring all ages, not just the youth but anyone eager to learn. It’s that personal connection, the sharing of knowledge, and the hands-on approach that can bring the next generation into the fold. It’s not just about teaching them how to shoot; it’s about instilling the same passion and curiosity that she has for the sport, mainly due to her Dads passion and community she has grown to love.

The idea that learning something new every day and passing that knowledge on is both a personal joy and a key to expanding the sport is incredibly powerful. It’s about growth on both sides – the mentor and the mentee. Mentoring is a two-way street and the willingness to learn and evolve is what keeps the community dynamic and thriving.

Aja’s approach is exactly what the BPCR community needs to move forward: a focus on attracting young, curious minds to the sport, mentoring them, and creating a community where knowledge is shared freely across generations.

The challenge now is making sure that the sport isn’t just something people hear about but something they want to be a part of and that’s where Aja’s mentorship, vision, and love for the industry will truly shine.

Buffalo Arms Company

buffaloarms.com

(208) 263-6953