Getting Started with Biathlon

Memberships

Athletes are required to be members of the United States Biathlon Association, Fairbanks Biathlon Club, and Nordic Ski Club; these dues help pay for range/target maintenance and insurance.

Annual costs: $50 USBA, $20 NSCF student membership.

Rifle

Costs range widely. There are a limited number of rifles available for lease from the club for $75 per trimester, or a race ready rifle can typically be purchased for around $1,500 to $4,000.

Ammunition

Practice ammo usually runs about $200/year.  Currently ammo is FREE for athletes thanks to a grant.

Skis and Clothing

You’ll need skate skis, poles and thin gloves for shooting. Normal skate skiing clothing, race suits, warm clothing, and boots for working range

Optional Items

Biathlon summer clinics (costs vary–one is in Anchorage at the end of May), Travel to races (Anchorage)

Practices

  • Summer range openings at UAF to practice shooting and running (for fitness and heart rate) probably on Fridays
  • Winter range openings at Birch Hill to practice shooting and skiing probably on Sunday afternoons after Jr. Nordics
  • Practice at home just going through the motions getting in position with the rifle

Range Maps

  • Birch Hill
  • UAF

Resources

Here are some links to Alaska biathlon programs:

Alaska Biathlon Association

Skiku Biathlon – Anchorage

Eagle Eye Biathlon – Anchorage