Algimantas Šalna was the first Lithuanian athlete to win a Winter Olympic medal, winning gold at the 1984 Olympics as a member of the Soviet relay team. He also placed fifth in the 10 km at those Olympics. At the World Championships, Šalna won two golds, both in the relay, in 1983 and 1985. His best individual finish at the World Championships was seventh at 10 km in 1983. Šalna won two Soviet titles, both in 1983, in the 20 km and the relay. After his sporting career Šalna worked as a biathlon coach, living and working in the United States beginning in 1991, and coached the United States Olympic biathlon team in 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2006.
Erroneously listed as dying 10 May 1984.