Athletes & Coaches

Performance Program

Born July 15, 2004 in Sechelt, BC

Sea to Sky Nordics athlete Alexander has been involved in biathlon since summer 2017 when he tried it for the first time at Whistler Olympic Park. He has been very successful in recent trial races, for example the winter 2021 national team test where he came in seventh overall and third in his age category nationally. He loves the constant challenge and reward cycle in the sport of biathlon. Alexander is proud of the progress he has made as an athlete, and hopes that the time with the WNDC will help him achieve his athletic goal of racing to the podium in national competitions. Three things on the music and book lover’s bucket list are to experience Japan, to go skydiving and to go exploring.

Performance Program

Born January 7, 2003 in Vancouver, BC

Sean Benson is a biathlete with the Whistler Nordic Development Centre (WNDC). Sean’s journey in biathlon began in 2012 during a summer camp hosted by Sea to Sky Nordics at the Olympic Park, sparking a passion that has led him to compete internationally.

Sean’s major achievements include placing 44th in the Individual event at the 2024 World Championships, 62nd in the Sprint at the Junior Open European Championships 2024, and 58th in the Super Sprint at Junior Cup 1 in 2022. He loves biathlon for the opportunities it provides to travel the world, compete, and push himself to new limits. His goals include competing in all the Junior IBU Cups this year, progressing to IBU Cups, and eventually representing Canada at the Olympics.

Known for his precision in shooting, Sean complements his athletic pursuits with a passion for baking, particularly Pesto Chicken Pasta. In his downtime, he enjoys the TV show Veep, the song "Three Lions," and the book The Hobbit. While traveling, his trusty boot dryer is essential.

Proud of his recent competitions and ranking 44th at Worlds, Sean dreams of exploring Southern Africa on safari, hiking Mount Kilimanjaro, and living in Europe for non-biathlon reasons.

Podium Program

Ryan Elden – Biathlon Athlete
Birthdate: November 8, 1999
Hometown: Quesnel, BC

About Ryan
Ryan Elden discovered his passion for biathlon at the age of 10 with the Cariboo Ski Touring Club in Quesnel, BC. Since then, he has been dedicated to excelling in this challenging sport, where every race offers unique variables and opportunities for growth.

Ryan’s athletic journey is marked by impressive achievements, including a gold medal in the Pursuit at the 2019 Canada Winter Games and a first-place finish at the 2023 Sovereign Lake NorAm. Most recently, he competed internationally, placing 37th in the French National Circuit in 2024.

Goals and Aspirations
Ryan aims to represent Canada on the world stage by competing in the 2026 Olympic Games. He believes his positive attitude and determination are his biggest strengths, propelling him forward on his athletic journey.

Off the Track
When he’s not training, Ryan enjoys volleyball, soccer, and indulging in his favorite foods—cheese being a particular highlight! Known affectionately as “Ryguy” by his friends, Ryan brings humor and warmth to every environment he’s in.

Fun Facts About Ryan

• Favorite Movie: How to Train Your Dragon
• Favorite Song: “You’re Welcome” from Moana
• Must-Have Travel Item: Moustache Wax
• Bucket List: Skydiving, traveling through Asia, and learning to play an instrument

Ryan is most proud of his personal growth throughout his athletic journey and looks forward to inspiring others with his story.

Ryan has been part of the WNDC since summer 2017.

Performance Program

Bio to Follow!

Dan will joined the WNDC in summer 2022.

Performance Program

Bio to Follow!

Performance Program

Born in Richmond, Ontario, on April 4, 2006, Eric Piercey is a dedicated biathlete with a passion for the challenging and rewarding nature of his sport. He began his biathlon journey with the Cadets program and currently competes with Team Chelsea.

Eric has consistently demonstrated his skills, achieving top-10 finishes at Nationals and working towards his ultimate goal of National Team selection. Known for his determination, he balances the demands of his sport with a love for trail running and a desire to tackle adventurous goals like backcountry skiing in Japan, running an ultramarathon, and climbing an 8000+ meter mountain.

Off the trails and range, Eric enjoys lamb, the movie Ratatouille, and the song "Naomi" by Neutral Milk Hotel. Always prepared, his soundproof headphones are a must-have during travel. Eric’s proudest moment so far has been his successful injury rehabilitation, a testament to his resilience and drive.

Performance Program

Mia Rodger – Biathlon Athlete
Birthdate: January 10, 2007
Hometown: North Vancouver, BC

About Mia
Mia Rodger began her biathlon journey in 2018 in Whistler, inspired by her love for skiing and competition. A proud member of the Whistler Nordic Development Centre (WNDC) and Sea to Sky Nordics, Mia is deeply connected to the supportive biathlon community.

Her athletic career is already highlighted by impressive accomplishments, including a gold medal at the 2023 Canada Winter Games (10km individual) and competitive finishes at the 2024 Youth World Championships, where she placed 36th in the 10km individual event and 38th in the 7.5km mass start.

Goals and Aspirations
While Mia’s ultimate goal may include the Olympics, she is currently focused on growing as an athlete and excelling in her sport while balancing her academic commitments.

Off the Track
When she’s not training, Mia enjoys swimming in the ocean, indulging in her favorite snack—avocado toast with coffee—and staying creative through photography and Pinterest.

Fun Facts About Mia

• Favorite Movie: Booksmart
• Favorite Song: “Live Well” by Palace
• Must-Have Travel Item: AirPods or headphones
• Bucket List: Backpacking through Europe, running a marathon, and starting her own business

Mia is proud of her ability to balance the demands of sport and school and is excited about her journey ahead in biathlon.

Performance Program

Graham Benson – Biathlon Athlete
Birthdate: October 13, 2006
Hometown: Vancouver, BC, Canada

About Graham
Graham Benson discovered his passion for biathlon at the age of eight in Whistler, BC. As a member of the Sea to Sky Nordics and the British Biathlon Union, he has excelled in the sport, showcasing his skills both nationally and internationally.

Graham’s major achievements include a 14th-place finish in the Single Mixed Relay at Junior Cup #2 (2023), representing Great Britain in the 2024 Youth Olympic Games in South Korea, where he placed 44th in the Sprint, and earning a silver medal in the Mass Start at the 2024 Canadian National Championships in Hinton, AB.

Goals and Aspirations
Graham’s immediate goal is to secure a top-30 finish at the Youth World Championships. Ultimately, he dreams of competing in the Olympic Games. His competitive spirit is both his biggest strength and greatest motivator.

Off the Track
Outside of biathlon, Graham enjoys mountain biking, indulging in his favorite food—steak—and exploring new places. He cherishes the chance to meet people from around the world and thrives in competitive environments.

Fun Facts About Graham

• Favorite Movie: The Hangover
• Favorite Song: “Something Like That” by Tim McGraw
• Must-Have Travel Item: A SIM card with plenty of data
• Bucket List: Visit Africa for a safari, hike Mount Fuji in Japan, and compete in the Olympic Games

Representing Great Britain at prestigious events like the Junior IBU Circuit and the Youth Olympic Games remains one of Graham’s proudest accomplishments, and he looks forward to reaching new milestones in his biathlon journey.

Performance Program

Born July 5, 2005 in Edmonton, AB

Jasper has been cross country and downhill skiing since he was a child, and got involved in biathlon at the age of nine in Edmonton. He is now a Sea to Sky Nordics member. He was the youngest athlete to compete at the Nationals in 2018, raced to a bronze at the Canmore NorAms in 2019 and came in first in his age group’s sprint race in the Western Canadian Championships 2020. In his training, he wants to make every day count, and put in whatever it takes and more. His athletic goal is to represent Canada in the Olympic Games. If he is not on skis, he loves mountain biking, guitar, photography, art and seeking adventure with his friends.

Jasper was part of the WNDC Next Gen Program for 2021-22 and 2022-23.

Performance Program

Bio to follow 

Josie was part of the WNDC Next Gen Program from summer 2022 to spring 2023.

Performance Program

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Performance Program

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Performance Program

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Performance Program

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Performance Program

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Next Gen Program

Bio to Follow!

Graham joins the WNDC Next Gen Program from summer 2022 to spring 2023.

Next Gen Program

Bio to follow!

Lucas joins the WNDC Next Gen Program from summer 2022 to spring 2023.
 

Next Gen Program

Bio to follow!

Josie joins the WNDC Next Gen Program from summer 2022 to spring 2023.

Next Gen Program

Born August 24, 2005 in Vancouver, BC

Sophie got involved in biathlon only three years ago, in 2018 with the Sea to Sky Nordics, and loves the outdoor sport and the people she gets to train and progress with. Since 2018 she has raced to many top results, with her highlight being the 2020 BC Winter Games (silver in Mixed Relay, fourth in Individual, fifth in Sprint, fifth in Girls Team Relay). The determined athlete’s goal for the near future is to podium at the Nationals. Aside from skinny skis, downhill skiing is her biggest passion. She loves to bring her camera along with her and hopes to travel the world, to learn to speak Norwegian, and to watch a biathlon World Cup event in Europe.

Sophie was part of the WNDC Next Gen Program for 2021-22 and joins again for 2022-23.
 

Next Gen Program

Born July 5, 2005 in Edmonton, AB

Jasper has been cross country and downhill skiing since he was a child, and got involved in biathlon at the age of nine in Edmonton. He is now a Sea to Sky Nordics member. He was the youngest athlete to compete at the Nationals in 2018, raced to a bronze at the Canmore NorAms in 2019 and came in first in his age group’s sprint race in the Western Canadian Championships 2020. In his training, he wants to make every day count, and put in whatever it takes and more. His athletic goal is to represent Canada in the Olympic Games. If he is not on skis, he loves mountain biking, guitar, photography, art and seeking adventure with his friends.

Jasper was part of the WNDC Next Gen Program for 2021-22 and joins again for 2022-23.

Summer Program

Bio to Follow!

Xavier joins the WNDC for the Summer Program 2022.

Next Gen Program

Born July 15, 2004 in Sechelt, BC

Sea to Sky Nordics athlete Alexander has been involved in biathlon since summer 2017 when he tried it for the first time at Whistler Olympic Park. He has been very successful in recent trial races, for example the winter 2021 national team test where he came in seventh overall and third in his age category nationally. He loves the constant challenge and reward cycle in the sport of biathlon. Alexander is proud of the progress he has made as an athlete, and hopes that the time with the WNDC will help him achieve his athletic goal of racing to the podium in national competitions. Three things on the music and book lover’s bucket list are to experience Japan, to go skydiving and to go exploring.

Alexander was part of the WNDC Next Gen Program for 2021-22 and joins again for 2022-23.

Summer Program

Born November 13, 2004 in Vancouver, BC

Sofie tried biathlon for the first time when she was nine. Her most recent major race results with the Sea to Sky Nordics are a silver and bronze at the 2018 BC Winter Games, a gold at the 2020 BC Championships and a first place at the 2020 BC Cup in Burns Lake. She is most proud of qualifying for the U20 National Team for the 2020/21 season. She enjoys that biathlon allows her to be outside in nature, and she loves that anyone at the start line has the chance to win. The determined athletes’ goal is to place in the top three at National Championships and to eventually race in Europe in a Youth/Junior World Cup. Apart from biathlon, she loves downhill skiing and traveling. Three things on her bucket list are going to the Arctic, skydiving and hiking in the alps.

Sofie was part of the WNDC Next Gen Program from summer 2021 to spring 2022 and joins the Summer Program 2022.

Next Gen Program

Bio to follow!

Sophia joins the WNDC Next Gen Program from summer 2022 to spring 2023.

Next Gen Program

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Aliah joins the WNDC Next Gen Program from summer 2022 to spring 2023.

Head Coach

Etienne has been involved in Nordic sports his whole life. Growing up in one of France’s #1 biathlon areas, in a family involved in the sports and with Nordic trails going through his backyard, he stood on skis the first time when he was 17 months old. Since then he has been connected to the sports competitively both as athlete and coach, on the business side as sales and race service representative for ski brands, and as a technical advisor, volunteer and association member to foster sport development.

Etienne Letondeur has been WNDC Head Coach since 2016.

Assistant Coach

Born in Villard de lans France, Marion Bottesi has been involved in cross country skiing and biathlon since she was a child. She started cross country skiing at the age of eight. Always intrigued by the sport of biathlon, Marion soon started practicing shooting indoors with air guns, until she was legally allowed to shoot 22 calibre biathlon rifles at the age of 14. After racing on the provincial team for a while, she then transitioned to her real passion, coaching. Now she loves to help others on their journey to achieve their athletic goals.

Marion Bottesi has been WNDC Assistant Coach since 2019.

Performance Program / BIATHLON

Sean has been part of the WNDC since spring 2021.

Podium Program / Biathlon

Zach was part of the WNDC from summer 2019 to spring 2022.

Podium Program / Biathlon

Ryan has been part of the WNDC since summer 2017.

Performance Program / Biathlon

Kira was part of the WNDC during the summer program in 2021, and full-time from fall 2021 to spring 2022.

Performance Program / Biathlon

Janice was part of the WNDC from summer 2019 to spring 2022.

Podium Program / Biathlon

Logan was part of the WNDC from summer 2019 to spring 2022.

Performance Program  / Biathlon

Trevor was part of the WNDC from spring 2021 to spring 2022.

Podium Program / Biathlon

Andrei was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2022.

Podium Program / Biathlon

Lucas has been part of the WNDC since summer 2018.

Performance Program / Biathlon

Meaghan has been part of the WNDC during the summer program in 2019 and full-time since summer 2020.

Performance Program / Biathlon

Hanne has been part of the WNDC since summer 2019.

Summer Program / Biathlon

Larissa was part of the WNDC full-time team from summer 2017 to spring 2020, and for the Summer Program 2021.

Next Gen Program / Biathlon

Sophie was part of the WNDC Next Gen Program for 2021-22 and joins again for 2022-23.

Next Gen Program / Biathlon

Jasper was part of the WNDC Next Gen Program for 2021-22 and joins again for 2022-23.

Next Gen Program / Biathlon

Alexander was part of the WNDC Next Gen Program for 2021-22 and joins again for 2022-23.

Next Gen Program / Biathlon

Sofie was part of the WNDC Next Gen Program 2021-22 and joins the Summer Program 2022.

Summer Program / Biathlon

Emma was part of the WNDC Summer Program 2021.

Biathlon

Zach was part of the WNDC from summer 2019 to spring 2022.

Biathlon

Ryan has been part of the WNDC since summer 2017.

Biathlon

Janice was part of the WNDC from summer 2019 to spring 2022.

Biathlon

Logan was part of the WNDC from summer 2019 to spring 2022.

Biathlon

Andrei was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2022.

Biathlon

Lucas has been part of the WNDC since summer 2018.

Biathlon

Meaghan has been part of the WNDC during the summer program in 2019, and full-time since summer 2020.

Biathlon

Hanne has been part of the WNDC since summer 2019.

Biathlon

Angus was part of the WNDC from summer 2016 to spring 2021.

Biathlon

Larissa was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2020.

Biathlon

Sergey was part of the WNDC from summer 2018 to spring 2020.

Biathlon

Zach was part of the WNDC from summer 2019 to spring 2022.

Biathlon

Brett was part of the WNDC from summer 2019 to spring 2020.

Biathlon

Ryan has been part of the WNDC from summer 2017 until today.

Biathlon

Gillian was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2020.

Biathlon

Janice was part of the WNDC from summer 2019 to spring 2022.

Biathlon

Coralie was part of the WNDC from summer 2019 to spring 2020.

Biathlon

Keiran was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to fall 2020.

Biathlon

Logan was part of the WNDC from summer 2019 to spring 2022.

Cross-Country

Lisa was part of the WNDC from summer 2019 to spring 2020.

Biathlon

Andrei was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2022.

Biathlon

Lucas has been part of the WNDC from summer 2018 until today.

Biathlon

Hanne has been part of the WNDC from summer 2019 until today.

Biathlon

Angus was part of the WNDC from summer 2016 to spring 2021.

Biathlon

Larissa was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2020.

Biathlon

Sergey was part of the WNDC from summer 2018 to spring 2020.

Biathlon

Ryan has been part of the WNDC from summer 2017 until today.

Biathlon

Gillian was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2020.

Biathlon

Keiran was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to fall 2020.

Biathlon

Zoë was part of the WNDC from summer 2018 to spring 2019.

Biathlon

Andrei was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2022.

Biathlon

Lucas has been part of the WNDC from summer 2018 until today.

Biathlon

Angus was part of the WNDC from summer 2016 to spring 2021.

Biathlon

Natasia was part of the WNDC from summer 2018 to spring 2019.

Biathlon

Jarod was part of the WNDC from summer 2016 to spring 2018.

Biathlon

Larissa was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2020.

Cross-country

Lucie was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2018.

Biathlon

Ryan has been part of the WNDC from summer 2017 until today.

Biathlon

Gillian was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2020.

Biathlon

Kaede was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2018.

Biathlon

Keiran was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to fall 2020.

Biathlon, Cross-Country

Benita was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2018.

Biathlon

Andrei was part of the WNDC from summer 2017 to spring 2022.

Biathlon

Angus was part of the WNDC from summer 2016 to spring 2021.

Biathlon

Jarod was part of the WNDC from summer 2016 to spring 2018.

Biathlon

Bobby was part of the WNDC from summer 2016 to spring 2017.

Biathlon

Colton was part of the WNDC from summer 2016 to spring 2017.

Biathlon

Angus was part of the WNDC from summer 2016 to spring 2021.

Jessica started cross country skiing when she was 4 years old and went on to compete as a varsity athlete. She started coaching while racing for the University of Guelph and following a move to Squamish, BC, continued coaching skiing as well as biathlon, at Whistler Olympic Park and for the Sea to Sky Nordics Club. In 2017, Jessica coached for Biathlon Canada leading the teams at Open European Championships, IBU Cup 7 and the Junior IBU Tour. In 2018, she coached for Biathlon Canada at World Youth/Junior Championships as well as the Junior IBU Tour. Jessica became the Provincial Head Coach in 2018 for Biathlon BC and led Team BC during the 2019 Canada Winter Games.

Jessica was WNDC Assistant Coach from 2016 to 2019.

Nordic sports have always been part of Martin's life. His parents ran the local Nordic Ski Club in Fort McMurray/Alberta, so Martin started skiing as a small child with his family. He soon became a competitive athlete. In 2010, he became Junior National Champion. He was member of both the Alberta and British Columbia provincial teams, and in 2011/2012, he was even part of the Canadian Junior National Team. After moving to Whistler in 2011, He gained experience training in professional race teams during his time with the Callaghan Valley Training Centre from 2011-2014. Martin has coached Nordic skiers from grassroots level to development athletes.

Martin was WNDC Assistant Coach from 2016 to 2018.