Biathlon originated as a hunting competition in Sweden. Eventually it came to America after World War II. It first came to the Olympics in the 1960 Winter Games in Squaw Valley, California. It is open to both disabled and healthy people.

1. Paralympic biathletes begin the game with cross-country skiing. For blind and partially sighted skiers a guide provides verbal directions. Skiers with limb disabilities use either a chair skis or conventional skis with outriggers. Poles are optional.
2. The other part of biathlon is shooting targets. If a target is missed, the person who missed has to ski an extra lap of 200 meters.

For biathletes that are blind or can hardly see an air rifle and sound system are used. The system works as the following: When the rifle is pointed at the target it makes a small noise. Also, unlike normal biathlon, paralympic biathletes don’t carry the heavy guns to the targets. The guns are waiting for them.

3. Biathletes compete on looped courses from 7.5-12.km. After each loop, competitors shoot at a target. The targets’ center is 1 meter (3.28 ft.) Also, the athletes are judged on their overall time.

Biathlon has been an Olympic sport since 1957 and a Paralympic game since 1992. It is open to both men and women and is a diverse and exciting sport. If I could choose to be in the Winter Olympics, I would certainly choose biathlon.