The easiest way to try out the sport is to come to one of MVB’s Try Biathlon events, held twice each winter at the Mazama range.  In Try Biathlon, skiers interested in sampling biathlon can learn the basics in a short session.  We teach about equipment, history, safety and training before participants have the opportunity to try shooting and then alternating between skiing a short loop and shooting.  Try Biathlon is open to skiers age 9 and older, and no previous shooting experience is required. Visit our Events calendar for more details on our Christmas break Try Biathlon and President’s Day weekend Try Biathlon.

Washington Biathlon Association (WBA) also hosts a version of Try Biathlon at Stevens Pass Nordic Center, as well as several 2-day Newcomer Camps throughout the year.  If you are new to the sport, we strongly encourage you to take WBA's 2-day Newcomer Camp.  WBA is the most active club for adult biathletes in Washington and hosts four weekends of racing in both winter and summer/fall for biathletes of all ages.  WBA’s winter and summer ranges are only semi-permanent, and there are no regular practice opportunities available.

Methow Valley Biathlon’s ranges are permanent and make possible regular practice and training.  This year MVB is hosting one race, our annual Chasing the Sun event at the LBHS range/McCabe Trails.  A shooting clinic coached by Elise Putnam and geared towards adults who have already done some biathlon and want to improve their skills will be Friday afternoon Feb 21, 2025, the day before our Chasing the Sun race.  Other adult biathlon sessions are self-directed (no formal coaching available) and are organized by Scott Waichler.  To participate in adult sessions you must have your own equipment, have memberships in USBA, MVN, MVB, and have completed USBA's Basic Rifle Safety Course.  Once you have joined you will receive emails announcing training sessions, which typically take place 1-2x per week.

Don’t overlook your skiing when thinking about learning and improving!  There are many opportunities and class formats available in the Methow Valley, including clinics and weekly classes offered by Methow Valley Nordic Ski Education Foundation and public lessons offered by Methow Valley Ski School.  An especially fun and effective option is the Sun Mountain Camp in December (this season, 12/19-12/22).

Please contact Scott Waichler for more info on masters biathlon with MVB.