PHysics of Olympic Pistol Shooting


July 29, 2024
Above: Alexis Lauren Lagan, BS'17

With a pistol program desperate for success, Alexis (Lexi) Lauren Lagan BS'17 physics represents the next generation of athletes ready to take her sport to a new level. This month she heads to Paris. Her second Olympics.

Despite a degree in physics and a law degree in the works, Lexi can’t shake an Olympic dream so enticing she’s put her career on hold to represent her country in Paris this summer.

Lexi started shooting with her dad at a young age and enjoyed going to the range with her family as a bonding activity. While pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Pre-Law Physics, she began shooting international pistol at the University of Utah. At the collegiate level, she won a handful of national titles in women’s, mixed team events, and earned her spot on several All-American Teams.

Lexi participated in pistol for fun and to make friends in college, but as the Rio Games approached, she realized she wanted to pursue her interest in international shooting sports. She won the Olympic Alternate seat in Women’s Air Pistol in 2016, narrowly missing the opportunity to join Team USA in Rio. This only fueled her passion into the Tokyo 2020 Games and now Paris 2024.

In addition to visiting the range with her family, Lexi grew up dancing and singing. At 14, She received a medal and certificate from the White House for singing the National Anthem at more than 150 performances. She enjoys camping and hiking, and has a corgi named Guinevere who is frequently featured on her Instagram.

Read more about the sport.

Read more about U-affiliated athletes at the Games.