When I was contacted in 2014 to participate in the Wyoming Women’s Antelope Hunt (WWAH). I knew it would be a weekend of firsts: my first time hunting antelope; my first time hunting with a group of all women hunters; and my first time hunting and being a guest speaker at the same event. It was such an amazing experience that I have returned every year as a volunteer. I always bring home amazing memories and personal growth, and this year was no different.
Redefining Life is sponsored by Mace Brand
There is something magical about The Ranch at Ucross, the base of operations for the hunt weekend. When I turn my SUV down its winding driveway and spot the massive white event tent set up in the sunshine, I can’t stop the grin that spreads across my face. I know that this will be a time for women to learn about themselves, to teach other hunters, and to become a part of a sisterhood that will continue long after the weekend has come to a close. I love meeting the new hunters and catching up with old friends. 2017 marked the fifth year of the hunt, and some of the returning hunters and volunteers have not missed a year since its inception in 2013.
Just outside the tent is a smaller camp tent; it’s staked down next to the meat pole. A horizontal pole suspended 10 feet off the ground, the meat pole can accommodate several antelope carcasses at a time. This has become my happy place for the weekend. We see off the pairs of women hunters every morning and then anticipate their return. As I sit in my track chair with my computer nestled on my lap, my eyes stalk the highway, willing passing pickup trucks to slow and turn down the drive, bringing home triumphant huntresses.
This is what it’s all about. Some of the women have never hunted before; some left that morning full of apprehension and even fear. But when they tumble out of the truck with bloodstained fingernails and tear streaks down their…
