Hi everyone,

Found this site from the USBA link. I've just been introduce to the
sport while taking a vacation in Lake Placid, NY. I live outside of
Philadelphia, PA and I'm interested in summer biathlon. I realize
I've kind of missed the season, but I'm looking forward to trying my
first event in 2003. I've being running both road and XC races for
several years and I'm basically looking for something a little
different. I have a local shoot club in my area, so my goal is to
get a little practice in over the winter. My 10k running times are
around 38 to 40 mins - so I'm looking forward to the incoorporting
(sp?) the shooting aspect into running. Believe me, I have NO
misconceptions of how easy the shooting part is. I'm looking forward
to hitting my first target during a race - who knows, that might not
be till my thrid race!!! :-)

If I'm looking to purchase a basic, entry level biathlon rifle, what
should I ask at my local gun shop?

Thanks for any info - I'm looking forward to reading about everyone's
winter races, and learning from your posting. Who knows I might even
try sking this winter!!!

Darren