The North American and Canadian Biathlon Championships will be taking place at Whistler Olympic Park in 2019.

The Whistler Biathlon Society has announced that Squamish and Whistler will serve as co-host communities, for the 2019 Nationals, scheduled for March 19th through 24th.

The event will decide national and continental champions in biathlon for athletes aged 15 and older. Whistler Biathlon Society President, Clayton Whitman says it will allow locals a new opportunity; “This will be the first opportunity for several local biathletes to compete at a national and continental championships on their home tracks”.

Whitman says after hosting several major events like the World Youth & Junior trials, North American Cups and BC Championships over the past several winters, they have demonstrated that the biathlon community remains strong in the post-Olympic era.

Whistler last hosted the Biathlon Nationals six years ago. The Society has since been building volunteer capacity and certification in an effort to bring the national and continental championships back. Over 100 volunteers will be required during each competition day at next years’ events. “Being awarded the 2019 Nationals is a recognition of the amazing capabilities of our very skilled local volunteer officials.” says Whitman.

You can find more information and see opportunities to volunteer here.