The first Takshanuk Biathlon is scheduled for noon Saturday at Chilkoot Lake.
The event combines an approximately 5K cross-country ski race with paintball target shooting at three stations throughout the course.
“There will be prizes, for the two fastest and the person who comes in last,” said Pam Randles, education coordinator for Takshanuk Watershed Council.
A suggested $15 entry fee or donation will benefit the council. Free chili will be served, and hot dogs and hamburgers will be sold.
Participants should come to the pavilion at the campground there, but are cautioned that four-wheel-drive may be necessary to drive all the way in.
Council board member Ray Staska said he would set the course with state park ranger Preston Kroes this week, and was not yet sure of the total distance.
“We may not have a loop through the park,” Staska said. “A lot of spruce needles were blown down by the wind, so the main track will be out on the lake, and we’ll have paintball targets set up.”
He said the biathlon is a joint effort with the Haines Ski Club and said shooting targets would “add an element of fun and attract some younger folks.”
“For the targets, they will need to hit the target or fire twice before they can proceed, and if they hit the bull’s-eye, they’ll get time reduced,” Randles said. “It’s a race for the shortest amount of time.”
The biathlon will include divisions for children and adults.
“This is meant to be fun, and while there is a competition, we’re not talking Olympics here; we’re talking having a good time,” Randles said.
Paintball guns will be provided. Some skis are available to reserve; call the council at 766-3542 for more information.