Dani Aravich's Summer Training as 'Biathlon Bandit' for 2026 Paralympics

Dani Aravich, a U.S. Para biathlete known affectionately as the 'Biathlon Bandit,' is intensively training this summer in preparation for the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, set to take place from March 6 to March 15, 2026. Aravich, who made her Paralympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games and competed at the Beijing 2022 Games, is channeling her unique persona to enhance her performance and raise awareness for Para sports.

This summer training regimen includes rigorous endurance workouts on roller skis and shooting practice, alongside refreshing her horseback riding skills—a sport she hopes to integrate into her athletic identity. “The biggest thing is being able to prioritize something that's just for me right now,” said Aravich, a Montana native. Her focus on horseback riding stems from her deep-rooted western culture, and she draws parallels between skiing and riding, notably in terms of body positioning and focus.

Aravich, born without her left hand and forearm, initially entered the world of Para athletics through a talent-spotting initiative that led her to cross-country skiing. Despite her relatively recent entry into biathlon, she has already achieved a notable bronze medal at the 2025 IBU Para Biathlon World Cup season climax in Torsby, Sweden. “We're putting coins in our piggy banks and they're adding up, day after day,” she remarked, emphasizing her commitment to consistent improvement.

Looking forward to the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympics, Aravich hopes not only to perform well but also to elevate the profile of Para sports. She is part of a media collective called Culxtured, which aims to enhance visibility and coverage for Para athletes. “My biggest hope is that the Paralympics receive the most broadcast time it has ever received for a Winter Games,” she stated, reflecting her ambition to attract more attention to these events.

As she prepares for her second Paralympic Winter Games, Aravich maintains a dual focus on her athletic pursuits and her long-term career within the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, where she serves as a social media coordinator. She has also been involved in efforts to bring the Olympics and Paralympics to Salt Lake City in 2034, indicating her commitment to the sports community long after her competitive career.

Aravich's journey illustrates the resilience and dedication of Para athletes, as she navigates both the challenges of her sport and the complexities of personal aspirations. As the Milano Cortina Games approach, her efforts reflect a larger movement towards inclusivity and recognition within the athletic world.