How did you get started in the sport?
My earth science teacher and local coach, Kris, suggested I give Nordic (cross-country) skiing a try at the end of my freshman year of high school. At that time, I was racing alpine (downhill) competitively but was no longer having fun. I switched that summer and was able to give biathlon a try because U.S. Biathlon was recruiting new juniors. Basically, I was in the right place at the right time, influenced by the right people, and ready to try something new.

What are your goals for the Olympics?
On one hand, making it to the Olympics is a huge reward for all the hard work I've put into my career. On the other, I know I am capable of reaching peak performances. It's a bit of fun, but also realistic to think of achieving a top 20 individual result and a top 10 relay result. It is 2010, so why not?

What goes through your mind right before a race?
Not much, which might be a surprise, but the key is to be in the moment. Of course there is the general inner dialogue of making sure I have prepared right, gotten my race skis checked, etc., but for the most part, I keep pretty quiet.