Originally called "Military Patrol," it combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting and became a winter olympic sport in 1960. What is it?

The unique sport that pairs the grueling endurance of cross-country skiing with the steady precision of rifle shooting has its roots in military training. This connection is clear from its original name, "Military Patrol," which was demonstrated at several early Winter Games. The core challenge lies in the transition between these two disciplines. Athletes must ski at maximum effort, raising their heart rate, and then immediately calm their breathing and steady their hands to hit small targets. A missed shot often results in a penalty, usually requiring the athlete to ski an extra loop, making accuracy just as important as speed.

While Military Patrol was featured as a demonstration sport as early as 1924, it wasn't until the 1960 Winter Olympics in Squaw Valley, California, that it was officially welcomed as a men's medal event under its modern name. This official inclusion marked its transition from a military-specific skill to a globally recognized winter sport. Since then, its popularity has grown immensely, and the Olympic program has expanded to include various race formats for both men and women, such as sprint, pursuit, and relay events, solidifying its place as a dramatic and unpredictable highlight of the Winter Games.