GUNNAR
MUNEMITSU

ABOUT

Student-Athlete | Sporting Clays | Cross Country | Track & Field

Gunnar Kai Munemitsu is a 16-year-old student-athlete from Southern California whose athletic journey is defined by discipline, curiosity, and a long-term commitment to improvement.

A sophomore at Newport Harbor High School, Gunnar competes in both cross-county and track while also pursuing sporting clays competition independently through the National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA).  The combination of endurance athletics and precision shooting reflects his belief that success in any discipline begins with preparation, focus, and consistency. 

Gunnar first picked up a shotgun at the age of twelve and began formal instruction one year later with Leading Edge Shotgun Academy under the guidance of coach Ben Courtemarch.  Since then, he has steadily developed his competitive foundation through structured training and regular competition. 

He is a registered NSCA shooter and has quickly established himself as one of the promising young competitors in California’s Junior division.  Gunnar was named to the 2025 NSCA All-State Team for California (Sub-Junior Classification) and has earned Sub-Junior In-State Runner-Up Honors at the California State Championships in both 2024 & 2025.  His best registered score to date is an 89, a benchmark he continues to work toward improving as he gains experience on increasingly challenging courses across the country.

Gunnar approaches sporting clays with the mindset of a complete athlete.  His weekly training includes approximately 50 miles of running, four strength training sessions, and regular coached practice alongside independent training.  The physical demands of distance running complement the mental discipline required in precision sports, creating a balanced approach to athletic development.

Beyond athletics, Gunnar maintains a wide range of interests that reflect his curiosity and sense of responsibility.  He is an avid photographer and aviation enthusiast and contributes his photography skills to support the John Wayne Cancer Foundation, providing images that help support the cancer community and it’s fundraising efforts.

Family also plays an important role in Gunnar’s life.  He lives in a multi-generational household and enjoys helping care for his 96-year-old grandmother.  At home, he also spends time with his dachshund, Niko, who rarely misses the opportunity for a walk or backyard adventure.

Whether training, competing, or studying, Gunnar approaches his pursuits with the same guiding philosophy: progress comes from showing up consistently and learning from every experience.  He hopes to continue developing as both a student and athlete while pursuing the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level.