Fall training has brought me back to Utah and Soldier Hollow for another training block with Team Soldier Hollow. After spending much of this past year abroad, it was nice to spend this summer at home in Alaska for a while. I was still excited to leave again for a good training block out of state.

After a week here in Utah, I’m getting a little more adjusted to the thin air, and starting to remember my sunscreen after not needing it for a year.

I’ll be training here through October, and I am so excited to train at a nice shooting range, on real roller-ski trails, and have great biathlon coaching. I’ve already gotten so much out of everything that comes with training at an Olympic venue. I’ve also enjoyed spending time with athletes I’ve gotten to know over the years. We only briefly cross paths at races or camps, so getting to train with everyone for a longer stretch has been really nice.

I have also started sophomore year of college and am keeping up with a full schedule of online classes. It’s still hard being a full-time student-athlete, but attending university remotely is the only way this type of training is possible.

Utah has become a familiar place after visiting here several fall seasons. I already miss Alaska, my family, and especially my dogs, but I also love the warm evenings, crickets, and a change of scenery!

The first races of my season will happen soon, which makes these next several weeks especially important. I’m happy to have the opportunity to train with such a supportive and athlete-focused biathlon club, and to put in the work before winter begins.

Thank you to everyone who has helped make it possible for me to be here. My family, sponsors, coaches, friends, and everyone following along continue to give me opportunities I couldn’t create entirely on my own. I’m very grateful for your support, and I’m excited to see where this season goes.