Summer 2026 Recap

My goal for this summer was to recover from the season while maintaining hard training and continuing to improve. To achieve this, I focused on several key training priorities, enjoyed the simple pleasures of life in Vermont, and took a couple trips for wedding festivities.

The main training priorities for these four months of summer were focused on speeding up my shooting, refining biathlon specific technique, and managing my energy levels effectively.

Speeding up shooting requires more than just moving faster. You might be familiar with the phrase "slow is smooth, and smooth is fast", which applies perfectly to biathlon. Having mastered the fundamentals of handling the rifle, my focus shifted to refining execution. I paid special attention to two main areas: bolting and position setup. Maintaining a steady position while bolting reduces rifle movement, keeping the barrel closer to the target between shots. Meanwhile, proper position setup ensures a solid natural point of aim, aligning the rifle with the target even when my body relaxes, resulting in a steadier hold and more consistent hits. 

Biathlon specific technique is basically the same as any skate technique, but slightly adjusted for a more upright back posture while carrying a rifle. I worked on my ski placement by having my hips remain over my feet when planting each ski flat. Poling was another key area of focus, bringing my hands in while still throwing my elbows forward. While these technical cues might sound a bit goofy, anyone who has worked on ski technique probably understands.

Maintaining energy throughout a big summer of training does take effort and some planning. While I would like to be able to have big hours every "on" week, this isn't always the best practice because my body will get tired from physical stress and just with life. I ran into this scenario a couple times and was able to scale back easy training hours and still keep important intensity workouts quality. Along with rest, I make sure to fuel enough. Proper fueling, particularly maintaining adequate carbohydrate intake, remained a vital priority to support the demands of elite training. It was around 300 hours of physical training, and over 100 hours of time spent focused on shooting. 

I always make a point to appreciate the small daily moments that bring me joy. Returning to Vermont after a long winter away, I fully embraced its welcoming atmosphere by enjoying local maple creemees (soft-serve ice cream), and taking scenic detours during evening sunsets.

To beat the summer heat, I took frequent post workout dips in nearby lakes and streams. Community engagement was another highlight of my time in Vermont. Spending time with friends, leading fitness classes, and coaching junior and master skiers provided a fulfilling way to connect beyond competitive skiing. 

Alongside training and daily routines, I managed to fit in some memorable travel. In June, I traveled to Alaska for a friend's wedding. The trip was incredible and the long hours of daylight was a unique experience. Good thing I brought my eye mask for sleeping! Exploring trails right outside the door offered stunning views of nearby mountains and the ocean. And thankfully the many moose I saw were from a safe distance.

In August I took a quick trip to Chicago for a bachelorette party, which offered a fun change of pace from outdoor training. I even took a quick swim off the concrete beach of Lake Michigan! The weekend was packed with excitement, laughter, and great memories. 

In between these trips, I attended two US Biathlon training camps in Lake Placid. While camp includes plenty of camaraderie, the focus remains strictly on high quality structured training. Gathering with the team periodically boosts morale and elevates workout intensity. The Olympic Training Center provides a great environment for focused preparation that complements my regular training routine at home.

Summer always flies by, yet seeing the early foliage changes is a quick reminder of the season ahead. There is still a lot of work to do before the first snow, but I am very pleased with the summer progress. Up next, I'll be heading to Utah for an extended US Biathlon training camp and International Trials.

Thanks for tuning in and for your continued support! Special thanks to Finn Sisu for equipping my summer training with top-tier Marwe roller skis. The smooth ride of their latest composite skis is amazing.

Here's to a good fall!