story by Riata Cummings
Ty Campbell is the son of Tony and Bonnie Campbell of rural Plain City, Utah. Ty has a younger brother, Chase, and the family enjoys spending time together hunting and supporting one another’s passions. Ty is a senior at Fremont High School, and his favorite classes include animal science and welding. He is a member of the National FFA Organization and competes in the horse judging Career Development Event. After high school, he would like to hone his welding skills and use the trade to pay for his agricultural engineering degree at Utah State University.
Ty began competing in the trapshooting as a freshman in high school and has “loved it ever since.” Since starting, he has frequently finished in the top 10 competitors and has taken the championship title at several shoots. “This year I want to help others learn how to shoot and enjoy this great sport.” Outside of the Utah High School Rodeo Association shooting, Ty is part of the Amateur Trapshooting Association and other organizations dedicated to the scholarship and sportsmanship of young shooters.
“Trap shooting has taught me to be patient and not to be afraid to make friends.
“People are kind to me, and I want to be the same to others.” Ty tries to practice at least once a week, not including the competitive shoots. For him, the most challenging aspect of the sport is mental. “It’s all about how you think about it. Clear your mind until it is just you and the target. Most importantly, have fun. If you relax and enjoy it, your mind will follow you to great places.”
Ty’s mother grew up on a small farm where Clydesdale horses were the center of attention. The horses are trained to pull in teams, and they compete in shows and pulls all over the state. The Clydesdales are the pride of Ty’s grandfather and hero, Leon Bennett, who has learned to build a full horse harness from scratch. Leon has been driving teams of horses since he was a young boy, and they are part of every operation on the farm. Ty looks up to his grandfather’s wisdom and humility, and one day he would like to emulate the kindness that his Grandpa Leon possesses. “I want to be nice to everyone. I want to make a difference in the lives of the people I meet.
“I want to be there for everyone when they need me, and even when I can’t, I am there in spirit. It makes me feel good to help them, and I hope it makes them feel good; it makes them better.”
Ty would like to thank Vicki and Rob Brylee, the Cottam family, and Emily Sawnders for being supportive and helpful. He would also like to thank his parents for being willing to help at the shoots and supporting his passion for shooting. “I want to thank all of the friends and family that have helped me get to where I am and accomplish the things I have. I couldn’t have done it without them.”
