A Biathlon, in its competition form, consists of a race in which contestants ski around a cross-country track, and where the total distance is broken up by either two or four shooting rounds, half in prone position, the other half standing. Depending on the shooting performance, extra distance or time is added to the contestant's total running distance/time. As in most races, the contestant with the shortest total time wins.
For each shooting round, the biathlete must hit five targets; each missed target must be "atoned for" in one of three ways, depending on the competition format. In the case of Grafton Ponds, it will mean having 10 seconds added to the skier’s time.
“Biathlon training helps to develop understanding and awareness of shooting skills, and helps teach the body how to calm itself after physical excursion,” explained Bill Salmon, Grafton Ponds Director. “That is a benefit to athletes at every level. It also adds another exciting element to cross country skiing.”
Races begin at 10 a.m. and are open to all ages and abilities. Cost is $10 per person. Private course runs and groups are welcome with advance notice.
Grafton Ponds Outdoor Center is a year-round 2,000+ acre recreation center located in Grafton, Vermont, offering 30k of Nordic skiing with terrain park, 15k of snowshoeing and a 600-foot tubing run in winter; and mountain biking, bike terrain park, hiking, canoe excursions, swimming and kids camps in summer. A year-round biathlon course is new for 2010. Full base lodge. Great special events. For more information, visit GraftonPonds.com.
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The Windham Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in Grafton, Vermont whose mission is to promote Vermont's rural communities. Our businesses: the Grafton Inn, Grafton Ponds Outdoor Center, Grafton Village Cheese, Retreat Farm.
