The Australian Biathlon Association is a sports club located in Hotham Heights, Australia. As the National Federation for the Winter Olympic Sport of Biathlon, the club is dedicated to promoting and developing the sport at all levels.
Biathlon is a thrilling winter sport that combines cross country skiing with rifle shooting. Athletes ski in both sprint and distance races of varying lengths based on age category. Carrying a small-bore . 22 rifle on their backs, biathletes shoot at targets 50 metres away.
The skiing takes place on a set course, with the rifle shooting occurring at the Rifle Range within that course. The goal is to shoot five targets, with each miss recorded as a penalty. Athletes either ski penalty loops for each missed target or receive a time penalty.
The Australian Biathlon Association manages and supports biathlon at all levels, from youth to high-performance athletes to masters. The association aims to provide a pathway for participation in overseas biathlon events, fostering the development of the sport in Australia.
During winter, the club focuses on skiing and shooting activities, while during the rest of the year, they engage in running and rollerskiing. The association organises various events, including training camps, national championships, and selection races. They also offer programmes such as the Future Stars Camp and Residential Programmes, aimed at nurturing young talents in the sport.
The Australian Biathlon Association actively collaborates with other organisations and institutions, as evidenced by their successful training camp with the Czechia Biathlon B team. The club also aims to unify with Snow Australia, working closely with the Australian Sports Commission, the Australian Olympic Committee, and the International Biathlon Union, to ensure the long-term growth and success of the sport in Australia.
For those interested in getting involved or supporting the club, they can reach out via email at executiveofficer@biathlonaustralia. Com. au. The club's official website and social media pages provide further details on membership, events, bookings, sport development, teams, and a gallery showcasing the biathlon community.
The Australian Biathlon Association is a dynamic and inclusive sports club that invites individuals of all ages and skill levels to discover the unique blend of skiing and shooting that defines the sport of biathlon.