Biathlon

Biathlon is a sport that combines two different disciplines. Cross country skiing and target shooting form one unit in biathlon. The umbrella organisation of this sport is the IBU, which also organises the most important biathlon events. Different rock paintings reveal that, already 5000 years ago, people have been hunting on skis. In the 18th century skiing has been one of the most important military sports. The first organised biathlon competition dates back to the year 1776 and it took place at the border of Norway and Sweden.

Only after World War II also amateurs could participate in championships, whereas before it has always been a privilege of military persons. Also the name “biathlon” dates back to this time.

Nowadays Germany and Italy, especially South Tyrol, have become the most important sports for biathlon races - and this is also where the best athletes come from. However, recently there have also been athletes from Asia, for example China.