Biathlon is a unique dual-sport which originated from Modern Pentathlon in the mid-seventies. It involves Running and Swimming, challenging athletes to excel in both disciplines.
Biathlon operates on a points-based system, with set target times for running and swimming based on age groups (ranging from age 7 to 70+).
The format starts with running heats, followed by a move to the swimming pool to complete the swimming heats (i.e. there is a break between the run and the swim).
After each event, points are awarded or subtracted based on performance relative to target times. The athlete’s aim is to accumulate as many points as possible by achieving or surpassing these targets. The athlete’s scores from both disciplines are added up to determine their overall score and final standing.
(refer to the Points Calculation Table below)
Biathlon welcomes athletes from all backgrounds and skill levels. It is primarily an individual sport, catering for participants from ages 7 to 70+.
Apart from the focus on individual participation, there are dedicated schools and family team categories within the framework of individual participation. One athlete, for example, may be competing only as an idividual, or, as an indivual who also resprents their school and/or family teams at the same time. This structure allows athletes to focus on their individual participation, while at the same time engaging with their schools and families in a friendly, competitive and supportive environment which enhances the sport’s community spirit and broad appeal.
Gauteng North Biathlon is a member of the SA Biathlon Association which hosts a National Championship every year – much like most sport disciplines do.
Age Groups, Distances and Points calculation table – click here to view.
National Biathlon Schools Competition guidelines and rules – click here to view.
You can also refer to the full Biathlon Technical Rules document.
In order for an athlete to qualify to compete at the South African Championships, they must achieve all of the following criteria each season:
1. Be a fully paid up affiliated member.
2. Attend at least 3 league meets.
3. Complete GN Inter-Provincial and GN Champs (or any 2 Inter-Provincials).
4. Score above 1900 points at a meet.
5. Rank within the top 4 of their age group for the particular season.
(The athlete’s best meet score during the season will be used to place them)
In order for an athlete to be awarded Provincial Colours for Biathlon, an athlete must:
1. Attend the South African Championships.
Joining is as simple as entering for an event.
If you would like more information, please see our Join Us page.
Please refer to the Events page to see the latest Local League, Inter-Provincial and National championship schedule.
For 50 years, biathlon has been a sport which encourages particiation over all age groups (Junior, Senior and Masters), making this a family friendly sport.
We encourage schools to compete for the Provincial and National Schools Trophies.
For more information on Biathlon Schools, please see the Biathlon Schools page.
You may view our list of Committee members here.
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