ENSC Biathlon

What is biathlon?

Biathlon is an Olympic winter sport that combines the endurance of cross-country skiing with the precision of rifle marksmanship. It’s a demanding discipline that tests both physical stamina and mental focus. During races, athletes alternate between skiing and shooting at fixed intervals, aiming to complete the course in the shortest time possible—while avoiding time penalties for missed targets.

Despite its intensity (or perhaps because of it), the biathlon community is known for being dynamic, supportive, and welcoming to newcomers. So, what are you waiting for? Register today and experience the most exciting winter sport firsthand!

Learn more about biathlon

Shooting

Skiing

Smiling!

Our programs - overview

We separate our programs in four groups: introduction, development, racing and adult programs.

Adult

Age range: 18 years old and older
Rifle type: .22 calibre biathlon rifles. Rifles are available for rent with the club.
Biathlon training sessions are at the Strathcona Science provincial park.

Development and racing

Age range: 12 years old and older
Rifle type: .22 calibre biathlon rifles. Rifles are available for rent with the club.
Biathlon training sessions are at the Strathcona Science Provincial Park.

Introduction

Age range: 9-12 years old
Rifle type: eco aims. Eco aim rifles are a no-risk laser rifles for a 100% safe introduction to the sport!
Biathlon training sessions are at Gold Bar park.

Introductory Programs

2026/2027 Program Information Coming Soon!

Don't panic! We are excited to be making some changes to our programming and will be taking down our program information while we review and update the descriptions. Details will return in August with registration for Fall programming opening August 1st.

Development and Racing Programs

2026/2027 Program Information Coming Soon!

Don't panic! We are excited to be making some changes to our programming and will be taking down our program information while we review and update the descriptions. Details will return in August with registration for Fall programming opening August 1st.

Adults programs

2026/2027 Program Information Coming Soon!

Don't panic! We are excited to be making some changes to our programming and will be taking down our program information while we review and update the descriptions. Details will return in August with registration for Fall programming opening August 1st.

Our coaches

Emma Osness

Head coach
Emma has coached ENSC biathlon and cross-country programs since 2024, joining after spending five years coaching with Foothills Nordic. She has raced internationally for the Canadian National Team, and is a passionate advocate for women’s participation in sport. Emma is a Certified Exercise Physiologist and is currently completing a masters in medical sciences.
Dan Utting

Assistant coach
Dan has been a cornerstone of ENSC Biathlon for many years, and you'd be hard-pressed to find anyone who doesn't appreciate his energy and kindness. He's a certified Biathlon Canada Introduction to Competition coach, and when it comes to skiing, you'll most often find him at Goldbar—though Peter Lougheed Provincial Park also has a special place in his heart. Dan’s favourite World Cup skier: is ENSC’s very own Alison Mackie, and his favourite biathlete is Quentin Fillon Maillet (France).
Peter Rojkovski

Assistant coach
Peter joined ENSC’s coaching crew in 2025 and quickly became a favourite among athletes. He trained and competed with Foothills Nordic and the Biathlon Alberta Training Center before beginning a robotics engineering degree at the UofA in 2023. Whether he's discussing shooting technique, waxing conditions, or robot electronics, Peter brings an infectious enthusiasm and depth of knowledge to everything he does.
Odessa Bauer

Lead coach - eco aim programs
Our Eco Aims program lead coach, Odessa, has been part of the club since she was a little kid. She embodies everything we love about sport: dedication, passion, and a contagious joy that lifts everyone around her. Odessa takes great pride in connecting with athletes and making sure they feel seen and valued—she’s a cornerstone of our program, and we’re incredibly grateful for her involvement. Outside the club, Odessa is pursuing a master’s degree in mechanical engineering at the UofA, specializing in aerodynamics.
Scott Gow

Assistant coach
Does Scott even need an introduction? One of the most successful biathletes in Canadian history, Scott Gow has represented Canada on the world stage for over a decade, including a top-five finish at the Olympics and a bronze medal at the World Championships. Of course, that wasn’t enough—since retiring, he is now studying medicine at the University of Alberta. His dedication and discipline translate seamlessly into coaching, where athletes appreciate his attention to detail and calm, thoughtful guidance.