March 27, 2011 (Charlo, NB) – Zina Kocher led Team Alberta to the gold medal en route to the her fourth trip to the top step of the podium at the Canadian Biathlon Championships in Charlo, N.B. on Sunday.

The two-time Olympian, who handily won all three individual competitions, teamed up with fellow Albertans – Beau Thompson and Nathan Smith – in the mixed 3 x 6-kilometre relay to post a winning time of 53:40.3.

“I was able to end Nationals on a good note today so that is good,” said Kocher. “I am a little disappointed with the year though. My ski speed wasn’t where I want it to be and my shooting was far from where it needs to be. I know exactly what went wrong and what I need to do. I need a little break and I am motivated to know that I can be better, and I am looking forward to the next three years leading to Sochi.”

Quebec’s talented trio of Marc-Andre Bedard, Claude Godbout and Paul Morency teamed up to post the next fastest time at 54:49.4 to secure the silver medal.

Another Alberta squad consisting of Andrew Chisholm, Melanie Schultz and Cindy Clark locked up third place with a time of 1:00:47.9.

Quebec’s Antoine St. Louis, Chloe Selerier and Isabelle Abran joined forces to win gold in the junior division after posting a combined time of 1:05:48.2.

Complete results HERE.