The final mass starts in Oslo Holmenkollen always always feels like the last day of school. While some are still focused on their goals or trying a last-minute “miracle” to end their season on a high, some others are already in holiday mode, cheering trackside for their friends and being ready for a much-deserved break. However, it will not be only palms and beaches for biathletes as many are taking the chance to spend time at home with their loved ones finally tackling things left unfinished during a demanding season.

A Little Party First

It’s the worst well-kept secret of all time that all biathletes get together for a much-deserved party evening at the end of the season. When asked about this, Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold was helped by teammate Juni Arnekleiv who shouted “party” across the stadium sending everyone into laughter.

Italy’s Hannah Auchentaller made no secret of it, stating: “party first, then enjoying spring with my friends and a trip to Paris”. Similarly, Eric Perrot and Josha Burkhalter both said that their first task after the finish line of the mass start would be a beer with the team and the waxers.

Family Duties Upfront

After a long winter with limited time at home, a suitcase always ready by the door and constant precautions to avoid getting sick, for many the post-season priority is family.

“I will be taking care of my daughter, that’s the best plan”, confessed Justine Braisaz-Bouchet, who was immediately echoed by new-dad Johannes Dale-Skjevdal: “I will be a father full-time, so a lot of diapers to change in my off-season”.

Dmytro Pidruchnyi has already passed that phase, so he cannot wait to spend some quality time with his family at home: “I am looking forward to playing games with them, especially some football with my daughter and son”.

Philipp Horn is also heading home, though his duties are slightly different from parenting: “I will put on my working pants and get back to building again. I have some indoor renovations to do”.

Still Some Biathlon Left

The BMW IBU World Cup might have finished in Oslo Holmenkollen, but the season isn’t completely over. Spring, in fact, is the time for National Championships across many countries. Oleksandra Merkushyna, fresh off a career best in the sprint, will head to Bukovel where she plans to hit the slopes with her snowboard in between shooting sessions. Nadia Moser, instead, will compete in Canmore for a last time this season before heading to the hospital to remove a metal plate from her ankle.

Holiday Destinations

The most common answer, however, was holidays. Poland’s Konrad Badacz said it with sparkling eyes and the same could be seen in the smile of Quentin Fillon Maillet. The Frenchman is planning a trip to Mauritius. Eric Perrot has booked tickets for Thailand with his girlfriend, while it is not quite clear whether Isak Frey will take his girlfriend to Spain as he wants to play some golf there (he will still prioritize time with her though!).