PA Summer Biathlon at Camp Freedom

A Summer Biathlon is Cross Country running combined with Rifle Marksmanship

The 6K running race is divided into three parts:

First: The timing starts with waves of one or two runners leaving the start line every minute and running an approximately 1-mile loop. As you approach the shooting range at the end of the first running loop, you will run into the range, catching your breath, lie down in the prone position and pick up an easy to use .22 caliber target rifle. You shoot 5 shots at 4.5-inch metal knock down targets 33 meters away. For each missed target you are required to run a 70-meter penalty loop after the shooting stop. If course conditions do not permit a penalty loop, 25 seconds will be added to the runners overall time for each target missed.   

Second: After this first shooting stop, you run out of the range and run the same 1-mile loop again. The second time at the range you will shoot 5 shots at the same type target from the standing position and run the 70-meter penalty loop for each missed target.  If course conditions do not permit a penalty loop, 25 seconds will be added to the runners overall time for each target missed.  

Third: Once you’ve completed the standing position, you run out of the range and run the 1-mile loop a final time ending at the finish line

The Pennsylvania Biathlon Club will provide .22 caliber rifles and ammunition for competitors.  Competitors are allowed to use their own .22 caliber rifles, standard velocity ammunition, and a 5 round magazine.  However there are strictly enforced restrictions for personal rifles - no semi-automatic rifles, must use standard velocity lead ammunition, and open sights or peep sights only.

The field size will be limited to the first 100 registrants.  Awards for overall winners and age group winners will be given upon completion of the tabulation of race results.

This is a foot race over rugged terrain- No baby strollers, bikes, etc.  Due to insurance restrictions, there are no dogs or other animals of any kind allowed on Camp Freedom property.

All first time participants are required to attend a pre-race biathlon Familiarization and Safety Clinic.  Participants must check-in by 8:30 am on the day of the race.

7:00-8:30am                 Race check-in and bib pick up.

8:30-9:30am                 Familiarization Safety Clinic (mandatory for first-time participants)

                                      Zero for personal rifles, practice range time

10:00am                       Race begins

For more information visit: www.facebook.com/SummerBiathlonCampFreedom, www.pabiathlon.com or www.facebook.com/campfreedompa

Proceeds from this event will benefit Camp Freedom, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides outdoor healing adventures for individuals with disabilities, including Veterans, First Responders, their families, and Gold Star families.