Grizzly Bears (8-12)

A young person wearing a cap and gloves, aiming a blue biathlon rifle while lying on snow.

Grizzly Bears Program

The Grizzly Bears (formally Biathlon Bears) program offers a fun, safe, and engaging introduction to biathlon for kids of all skill levels—no prior skiing experience required! Participants build confidence in skate skiing, classic skiing, and shooting skills using Eco-Aims rifles, which are camera-based and ammunition-free, ensuring safety at city locations.

Fall Session (6 Weeks)
The fall session focuses on target shooting and ski-specific fitness through fun drills and games.

Winter Session (12 Weeks)
Starting in December (weather permitting), the winter session builds on shooting skills while introducing skate and classic skiing. Activities include drills and games to enhance balance, technique, and fitness. The program runs until mid-March.

Race Opportunities
Foothills provides coaching and rifle support for local races during the winter. Athletes can also compete in provincial cup races, gaining experience in the broader biathlon community (race fees not included).

Join Grizzly Bears for a great way to develop skills, fitness, and a love for biathlon!

Register Here

Program Details

  • Ages 9-12

    Children younger than 9 who are interested in biathlon are encouraged to register in the Jackrabbits program to develop basic ski skills.

    Note: If your child will attend both Fall and Winter sessions, please sign up for the winter session in September to avoid disappointment if a Winter session sells out.

    • Fall Session: 6 weeks September 15 to October 22

    • Winter Session: December 1 to March 11

    Choice of:

    • Tuesday and Thursday 4:30 – 6:00 pm

    • Tuesday and Thursday 6:15 – 7:45 pm

    • Winter Cubs Add-On: Mondays 6:30 – 8:00 pm (This add-on session is only open to 8 to 12 year olds also registered in another Foothills Nordic cross country ski program, i.e., Grizzly Bears, Jackrabbits Level 3, 4, JR Learn to Ski, or U14 Adventure Ski.

    • West Confederation Park

    • Confederation Park Golf Course

    *Practice times and locations subject to change dependent on weather and facility availability.

  • 2026/2027 Fees

  • Foothills Nordic relies on family volunteers to keep programs affordable. All Biathlon Bears parents must complete a set number of volunteer hours, as outlined on the Volunteer page. Sign-up lists with detailed roles will be provided.

    For details on the volunteer bond and year-round opportunities, visit Club Volunteer Opportunities.

  • If you have any questions, please contact biathlonbears@foothillsnordic.ca.

  • Download the Handbook HERE.