On February 18, Tawingo College hosted almost 130 students from across Muskoka in the school’s first Invitational Biathlon race. The Biathlon is an exciting sport that encompasses another challenge beyond a Nordic skiing race – the target component.
“The participants really enjoyed the target element,” said event organizer Mar (MoNa) McBrien. “Instead of carrying a rifle, as they do in the Olympics, the biathletes at Tawingo stopped enroute to fire stationary paintball markers at a target in prone position. It was a safe and exciting addition to the race.”
The event would not have been possible without partners like MJD Paintball from Huntsville, the Tawingo Outdoor Centre staff, the beautiful facilities at Camp Tawingo, and the dozens of volunteers who helped make the day a success.
At the finish line students were asked if they enjoyed the race and a common response was “Yes! When is the next one?” One parent volunteer was excited by “the opportunity for her children to learn about an Olympic sport that would not otherwise be accessible to them.”
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- Adam Dupuis on the course. Photo: Sarah Vanasse.
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- Tawingo grade 1/2 students line up to start the Biathlon. Photo: Sarah Vanasse.
Keep an ear out for the second Tawingo College Biathlon race next year (in between the Arrowhead Elementary school races). It is a terrific way to celebrate winter, learn more about the sport, be active outside, and have fun!
What a great opportunity!!
It was a very well run event and a great opportunity for our local kids! A beautiful winter day too!
Sounds fun