Norwegian biathlete Tarjei Bø commented on his third place in the pursuit race at the fifth round of the World Cup in Oberhof, Germany.

“It was one of the toughest races this season. After the decisive shooting, there were three athletes claiming the one remaining spot on the podium. There was fresh snow all over the course, so we had to give our best to overtake. I fought hard both on the shooting range and on the track. It was not easy; I was very tired, but I am happy with the result!

It is always difficult to compete in such weather conditions. When it snows during the race, all the athletes stick to the same ridden track, no one wants to go in the fresh snow, but it’s necessary to overtake. On the last lap, on a big hill, I tried to pass Loginov, got out in the fresh snow, but he was too stupid on skis. I even laughed to myself – a good maneuver. I had to spurt as if it was the last 50 meters. Only then I managed to overtake Sturla and Loginov. I took a good position and relaxed a little, because I knew how hard it would be for them if they wanted to challenge me.

We all have innate abilities – stamina, health, anthropometry and so on. My strengths are revealed by the track here in Oberhof. Long uphill gradients, flat and windy conditions give me the opportunity to show my full potential. Of course, it’s difficult for me, too, but in contrast to other athletes, I like it here. On flat terrain and long climbs I show higher speed than on easier terrain, or on tracks with an ice crust. Biathletes know about these peculiarities, for us it is common. It is important to use your strengths when you have the opportunity,” said Tarjei Bøe.

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Swedish biathlete Sebastian Samuelsson commented on his second place in the pursuit race at the fifth round of the World Cup in Oberhof, Germany.

“Very happy with my performance! I was concentrated and showed excellent shooting. Yesterday in the relay I ran into two penalty laps and let the team down, but today I showed what I can really do.

I have been in biathlon for a long time and I know very well how difficult it can be. But I also know very well that I can do a lot; the main thing is not to make mistakes. I prepared for the race as usual. But today I paid more attention to shooting and worked for a longer time on the rack than usual. It was important to cover all the targets.

It was hard. It was good that it was snowing and not raining. Probably, today was the hardest race of the season, but I managed to shoot. I hope I will be able to do the same in the next races.

I haven’t made a decision yet, but my plan is to do all races in Ruhpolding and skip the stage in Antholz. Nowadays it’s important to be flexible, not to make long-range plans; because of the coronavirus, everything can change very quickly. But before the Olympics I definitely need altitude training”, said Samuelsson.

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