Calgary Biathlete Adam Runnalls Fuels Olympic Passion Ahead of 2026 Games
Calgary's Adam Runnalls is channeling intense excitement as he prepares for his second Olympic biathlon adventure at the 2026 Winter Games in Italy. The veteran Team Canada athlete expressed his growing enthusiasm in the days leading up to his pursuit of the podium, stating, "Oh man, I'm getting excited now."
Aiming for Olympic Glory
The 28-year-old Calgarian has set his sights on medaling at the Milano-Cortina Games, but acknowledges the unique challenges of biathlon. "I wouldn't say my expectation is a medal — I think that would be crazy to say," Runnalls admitted regarding his return to the Olympics four years after debuting in Beijing. "But I don't think it's impossible. It's like a dream in a way, but that's kind of where my focus has been this year in individual racing."
Biathlon presents a distinctive test of athleticism, requiring competitors to cross-country ski at maximum speed before dramatically slowing their heart rate to achieve precise rifle shooting. Runnalls understands that excellence in both disciplines is essential for Olympic success. "Can't do one without the other if the Calgarian's sights are set on Olympic glory," he emphasized.
Overcoming Significant Challenges
Runnalls has maintained a fiercely positive attitude throughout the Olympic quadrennial despite facing substantial obstacles. Financial pressures represent a constant concern, with funding and sponsorship presenting ongoing challenges for Olympic athletes. Additionally, Runnalls has postponed surgery for a torn labrum in his left hip resulting from a late-season competition crash.
The Calgary native now finds himself as the sole returning Canadian biathlete from the 2022 Beijing Games, placing additional pressure on him to both perform and lead the eight-person Canadian team in Antholz. The squad that achieved a surprising sixth-place finish in the men's relay four years ago has disbanded, with his former teammates pursuing other life adventures.
Mentoring New Olympic Talent
Runnalls finds himself surrounded by Olympic newcomers, including fellow Calgarian Pascale Paradis. The 23-year-old is making her Olympic debut, beginning her competition journey in the 4×6-kilometre mixed relay. Paradis previously excelled with the NCAA's University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves cross-country ski team and earned a silver medal in the junior women's classic sprint at the U.S. national championships.
This leadership role has deepened Runnalls' passion for his second Olympic appearance. "The Olympics has always been the number one thing for me," said Runnalls, who grew up in Hawkwood and Arbour Lake and graduated from Robert Thirsk High School. "Knowing how those races felt in Beijing and kind of that extra gear you find helps motivate you to do your best."
Drawing Inspiration from Past Experience
Runnalls draws motivation from vivid memories of his previous Olympic experience. "I remember one of our wax techs came out onto the race course when we were racing to cheer us on and give us time-splits and stuff like that," he recalled, reflecting on the 2022 Games. "And I remember one of the guys always saying, 'It's the Olympics, man — you can do it! Come on! Come on! Come on!'"
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, Adam Runnalls combines his veteran experience with renewed enthusiasm, determined to make his second Olympic journey even more memorable than his first while pursuing that elusive podium finish for Canada.
