Hit the target - Biathlon taster course

Biathlon is a combination sport that combines the endurance sport of cross-country skiing with the precision sport of shooting. This combination makes biathlon so exciting for spectators. During the running laps, athletes carry their rifles on their backs using sophisticated carrying systems, with the barrel pointed upwards. "Shooting is done exclusively with pure biathlon rifles, meaning small-caliber rifles," explains Alexander Marent, a former cross-country professional and instructor at the Cross Country Academy in Seefeld. In the competition, athletes start at intervals of 30 seconds or in a mass start and usually run five laps. "Shooting is done after each completed lap; only the last lap ends without a shot. Five shots are fired per shooting session," explains the coach. Depending on the event, shooting is generally done twice in the prone position and twice in the standing position. "Especially in standing shooting, it's crucial to get your breathing under control, which is usually easier when exhaling," says Marent. Anyone who has tried it will know that even prone shooting is anything but easy. Precise aiming through the diopter requires the highest concentration and absolute calm. "It's much easier when lying down, while standing, it's hard to keep the weapon steady," says Alexander Marent. "During the introductory sessions, we shoot from the prone position, which means the rifle is supported on its own construction, allowing for much more stability. We try to teach our guests the basics and give them a sense of it. How do I aim at the targets? How do I reload correctly? Most people realize that it’s not as easy as it seems." For safety reasons, no rifle is carried while running during the biathlon introduction, as the weapon is only issued directly at the shooting range.

Over the last few decades, during which the sport of biathlon has become increasingly popular and attracted more and more spectators, the so-called Fortner lock has established itself on the rifles, allowing for minimal reloading time. The shooter can open the straight pull bolt with their index finger and close it again with the thumb of the shooting hand. "When reloading, you open the bolt and practically push the next projectile in with your thumb," attempts Marent to describe the reloading process in simple terms. The special feature of biathlon rifles is the stock. "The stocks of the rifles are adapted to the athletes in both their shape and appearance. Personal preferences play a significant role here. It is important that the stock fits well on the shoulder and that there is good visibility through the diopter," reveals the former cross-country skiing professional. The distance to the targets is defined as 50 meters, and the shooter decides the order in which to aim at the targets. In very strong winds, the sight line can be adjusted on the diopter to account for the deviation.

Even if you are not one of the biathlon fans, at the biathlon taster, many sparks have already flown. Just like with other precision sports, the fascination begins in the focus, during which one can forget everything around them for at least a short time. Those who have truly caught fire during the introductory session can, of course, deepen their skills in Seefeld through various advanced courses at the Cross-Country Academy and refine their technique. Training in Seefeld takes place all year round: in winter on cross-country skis and in summer on rollers. "Roller training is still the most similar movement to cross-country skiing," says Alexander Marent. As soon as winter sweeps over the high plateau, the deeply snow-covered cross-country trails will fill up again, and the shooting range will open its doors for biathletes. May many enthusiasts, both professional and recreational athletes, hit the target again!

The biathlon facility in Leutasch offers you the opportunity to experience the fascinating combination of precision and endurance of biathlon for yourself. During the biathlon trial shooting in Leutasch, you can prove your shooting accuracy while feeling the adrenaline rush through your veins as you glide on the perfectly groomed trails. In the picturesque backdrop of the Alps, modern shooting ranges and trails are waiting to be conquered by you.