Minnesota Biathlon

Race Recap – Sunday, February 17, 2007

Twin Cities Biathlon hosted an informal 10K (PPSS) biathlon race at the Elk River Biathlon Range with mild temperatures, variable gusty winds, and great course conditions.

There were 9 competitors – 6 from Northwest Biathlon (3 from the Duluth area, 3 from Brainerd / Nisswa) and 3 from Twin Cities Biathlon.

The race format, a reverse pursuit / handicap, was determined by Northwest Biathlon coach Bill Meyer.

Handicap times
Frank Ruzich — 0
Jenna Ruzich — 1min
Josh Duda, Brian Wray, Lou Chouinard — 2 min
Erik Rupert, Geoff Parsons, Cody Scott — 3min
Raleigh Goessling — 5 min.

The wind played a factor as shooting accuracy was lower that expected. Raleigh Goessling, fresh from the World Junior Biathlon Championships and finishing 10th in the Minnesota High School State meet, destroyed the field with fast skiing and the best shooting of the day.

Finish times – Includes the Handicap
1] Raleigh 36:44
2] Erik 40:50
3] Geoff 43:35
4] Lou 44:35
5] Josh 44:50
6] Brian 45:19
7] Cody 51:45
Frank and Jenna DNF

Thanks to Brian Wray and Mike Gruye for volunteering to help put on this race. A special thanks to Bill Meyer for race coordination, timing, and shooting corrections after the first shooting stage.