Courtesy photo A biathlon participant takes aim during the marksmanship portion of a biathlon.

ALPENA –The Thunder Bay Trails Association (TBTA), in partnership with the Alpena Sportsmen’s Club, is proud to announce the expansion of the local biathlon program.

Residents of Alpena and the surrounding communities are invited to experience this unique Olympic sport every Saturday morning at 10 a.m. at the Alpena Sportsmen’s Club.

National Success:

The local biathlon league is quickly making a name for itself far beyond Northeast Michigan. Recently, the club sent representatives to compete at the Ariens Nordic Center Biathlon Nationals.

The highlight of the event was the standout performance by John Kusku, a blind biathlete representing the Thunder Bay Trails Association.

Kusku’s precision and athleticism earned him a gold medal, bringing national honors back to Alpena and proving that biathlon is a sport truly accessible to everyone.

Empowering the next generation growth at the local level has been fueled by the generous support of the Alpena County Youth and Recreation Committee.

Thanks to a recent grant, TBTA has successfully launched a dedicated youth biathlon program. This funding provides the necessary equipment and coaching to introduce local students to the sport that fosters discipline, physical fitness, and outdoor appreciation.

“Seeing our local athletes compete at a national level, and bring home gold, is a testament to the talent in Alpena,” said Matt Dunckel of the Thunder BayTrails Association. “But, just as important, is the work we are doing at home to build a foundation for our youth through the Alpena County Youth and Recreation grant.

“How to Get Involved:

Biathlon combines the cardiovascular challenge of Nordic skiing, running, and hiking in the off-season, with the focus and precision of marksmanship.

The Alpena Sportsmen’s Club host biathlon events every Saturday at 10 a.m. at the club in the events are open to all skill levels. Youth and families are highly encouraged to attend

Families or youth interested in participating in the biathlon program can contact the TBTA biathlon coordinator Matt Dunckel at thunder.bay.trails@gmail.com for more information.