!!CANCELLED!! August Double Header Races
Due to the lack of early registrations for the August 22nd Double Header races, we have made the call to cancel both events. While we don't like to make these types of decisions, the low numbers does not justify the amount work necessary to setup the events and cover the associated costs. There is one more summer race in NY at Old Forge on September 5th with registration open now on skireg.com
August Double Header Races
Summer isn't over yet and neither is the summer biathlon season. Syracuse is teaming up with Polar Bear once again to bring another day with two races on Saturday, August 22 at Osceola Ski & Sport. The Double Header day will start off with running biathlon followed up with a mt. bike biathlon in the early afternoon. Compete in either or both races for a great day of biathlon. Both races will be a relay format using time penalties instead of the dreaded penalty loop. The running race will be an individual relay format while the mt. bike will be 2-person relay teams. Registration is now open on skireg.com or if you can volunteer, let us know via the volunteer sign-up. Skireg doesn't allow a great deal of details so you can get all the details in the latest SBC email that is linked below. Email Pete at info@syracusebiathlon.com if you have any other questions.
Syracuse/Polar Bear Pursuit Challenge Results
A solid group of competitors took on the elements including torrential rain and Canadian wildfire smoke to tackle the SYR/PB Pursuit Challenge on July 18th. Congratulations to Giovanni Bucci who took home the men's Challenge Championship after powering through the muddy trails that resulted. Thanks to everyone who made it to the race and all the volunteers who made the day happen. Results for the two races are linked below.
Summer Biathlon Clinic & Sprint Race
We're kicking off the summer season with our June clinic & sprint race at Pratt's Falls on Saturday, June 20th. If you've been looking to give biathlon a try, this is the best opportunity you'll have to get a solid start on things. There will be coverage of all the basics you'll need to know, race course inspection and strategy, plus an extended time to work on your shooting skills with coaching. For experienced biathletes, this is a great opportunity to get in a solid training day. All participants are encouraged to take part in the short (~4km) sprint format race following the clinic. Don't miss out on this opportunity as we usually can only offer this long of a clinic once per year. Not ready to jump in but still want to check things out? Sign up to volunteer for the day to help us out and get a close up view of the activity. All participants (must be 13 and over) need to complete the US BIathlon online rifle safety training before the event (see details under Rifle Safety Training in the menu to the left). Registration with event info along with volunteer sign-up links are below. Email info@syracusebiathlon.com if you have any questions.
Pursuit Challenge Weekend Postponed
After inspecting the range this morning (1/29) and reviewing the weather forecast for the weekend, we have made the decision to postpone the pursuit weekend until March. With the amount of snow in the range, it would take a large effort to make it possible to shoot in the prone position. Also, temperatures for both days of competition are showing subzero for race start times which is not a safe situation for our volunteers and competitors. We'll update once a new date can be found.
Rifle Safety Indicator Reference
A copy of the slides covering the requirement of Rifle Safety Indicators from the 2026 Competitors Rule Update has been added to the 'Rifle Safety Training' portion of the website. This reviews the rule itself, how it is being implemented at races & training plus a example for a race day.
Syracuse/Polar Bear Pursuit Challenge Weekend Registration Open
The highlight of our season is the SBC/Polar Bear Pursuit Challenge Weekend with two great days of competition. You can race either day or tackle both for the true pursuit experience. Both races will be held at Osceola Ski & Sport Resort. Beginners/novices are welcome at either day (13 and older) with the use of a rifle and ammo provided as part of your race entry.
Two Reminders!!
All participants must complete the online portion of the USBA rifle safety certification before race day. See the link from the menu on the left for details on how to complete this process.
There is a new IBU/USBA rule in effect this season requiring the use of a rifle safety indicator. If you have your own rifle make sure you have one with you and know how to use it at the properly. It is a good idea to put your name on your indicator to make finding it at the finish an easier process.
Registration is now open on Skireg.com for both days. We also need at least 4-5 volunteers to help out in order to safely run these races. If you can help out, please let us know you'll be coming by signing up on the volunteer page!
Syracuse/Polar Bear Pursuit Challenge Weekend Results
Thanks to everyone who made it to Osceola for the 2025 Pursuit Challenge Weekend! The decision was made to combine both events into one day and fortunately the weather have us a break from the heat to make it bearable. Congratulations go out to Cindy Daly and Brayden Ashby who held off their respective competition to become the latest Pursuit Challenge Champions! Results for the day can be found below: