At a Glance
> At a Glance
> – Tim Burke, a four-time Olympian, is directing U.S. biathlon athlete development.
> – He aims to bring a U.S. biathlon medal to the 2026 Games.
> – Burke emphasizes the need for more fan recognition and athlete opportunities.
> – Why it matters: A U.S. biathlon medal could spark growth of the sport nationwide.
Tim Burke, the Lake Placid native who has competed in four Olympic Games, is leading the push to raise the profile of biathlon in the United States. As director of athlete development for U.S. Biathlon, he draws on his own experience to inspire a new generation of competitors. His goal is to help the U.S. team secure its first Olympic medal in biathlon at the 2026 Games in Italy.
Vision and Experience
Burke’s love for biathlon began at age 12, when he fell in love with the sport’s blend of cross-country skiing and rifle marksmanship. He says the challenge of balancing speed and composure on the track is what keeps him motivated.
Tim Burke said:
> “I was really drawn to biathlon right away. I get to ski and shoot things? This is fantastic.”
Tim Burke explained:
> “It’s trying to find that balance, that challenge of skiing as fast as you can while still … having your composure to hit those small targets during the race.”
- Balancing speed and precision
- Learning from mistakes
- Transferring experience to the next generation
Growing Opportunities
Burke notes that the level of support for young athletes today is far higher than when he started.
Tim Burke said:
> “The opportunities we have for developing athletes coming up today are … way more at a higher level than when I was a kid.”
Hope for the Future
Burke is optimistic about the U.S. team, especially with Campbell Wright, who captured two silver medals at the World Championships. He believes an Olympic medal would be a big story that could draw more fans and athletes.
Tim Burke said:
> “I think if we can get through that and win that Olympic medal, it’ll be a very big story for the sport and hopefully draw more fans and athletes into the sport.”
European Culture vs U.S. Recognition
He points to the vibrant biathlon culture in Europe, where World Cup events attract 20,000 to 30,000 fans and athletes are treated as sports stars. He wishes U.S. athletes could receive similar recognition.
Tim Burke said:
> “When you go to a World Cup event … you have 20,000, 30,000 fans there watching the events. The athletes over there are, they’re stars. They are sports stars. I would love for our athletes at home… to get some of that recognition.”
Key Takeaways
- Tim Burke is driving U.S. biathlon toward Olympic success.
- He emphasizes learning from experience and expanding athlete support.
- A U.S. medal could elevate the sport’s profile and fan base.
With the 2026 Winter Games on the horizon, Burke’s leadership and experience could be the catalyst that propels U.S. biathlon into the spotlight.
