Logroño, (EFE) - Karla Anguiano is set to take the helm of the Riojan Hunting Federation (Federación Riojana de Caza) as its first female president. This historic election marks a significant milestone for the federation, where Anguiano aims to shift the social perception of hunting by emphasizing its environmental contributions. “We are not killers or gun-toting poachers,” she stated, seeking to reframe the public's view of the sport.
The 38-year-old entrepreneur, affiliated with the Los Cabezos hunting society of Fuenmayor, boasts a formidable background, having made history as the first woman to compete at the regional level of small game hunting with dog, and she was recently crowned the national female runner-up in the sport.
Anguiano's ascent to the presidency follows a contentious electoral process, characterized by challenges and controversies. Although another candidate garnered more support within the federation, Anguiano emerged victorious, securing 12 votes from the assembly's 21 members. Her official inauguration will take place on December 27.
“There is much work to be done,” Anguiano acknowledged, indicating her readiness to lead one of the largest federations in La Rioja, which boasts approximately six thousand licensed hunters. She plans to spearhead initiatives aimed at transparency and enlisting change-makers who have previously been outside the federation.
Without assigning blame to her predecessor, Eduardo Cornejo, Anguiano recognized the need for fresh ideas within the organization. “I believe he has done everything possible, but we have felt there is a need for new energy,” she said.
Anguiano is particularly concerned about the external perception of hunting, which she feels has been unfairly tainted. She highlights the role of hunters as stewards of the environment, stating, “We all care about preserving nature, but there's often a contradicting portrayal driven by certain interests.”
The federation hopes to reduce the average age of its members, which currently sits at almost fifty, by attracting younger participants to what Anguiano describes as “a very beautiful sport.”
Her vision includes revitalizing La Rioja as the site for national competitions across various hunting disciplines from small game hunting to clay pigeon shooting. Anguiano’s presidency not only heralds the dawn of female leadership within the federation but also holds the promise of broader participation and improved public relations.
“We want to boost everything related to hunting and contribute to a positive perception of our sport,” she concluded, underscoring her commitment to fostering appreciation for hunting as not just a sport but also a culture intertwined with ecological stewardship.
With Anguiano's election, the Riojan Hunting Federation stands at the threshold of change, eager to embrace new perspectives and potentially transform the future of hunting in the region.
