The Ukrainian junior women’s team set the tone in the 2025/2026 season, securing victory in the IBU Junior Nations Cup. Tetiana Tarasiuk played a major role in this success: as one of the most successful athletes of the IBU Junior Cup season, she achieved numerous top-five finishes. At just 20 years old, she has strong support from her family and is determined to earn a spot on the World Cup team.

One of the most emotional moments of the 2025/2026 IBU Junior Cup season came in the Single Mixed Relay at the IBU Junior Open European Championships in Imatra. As Taras Tarasiuk crossed the finish line first, his sister Tetiana rushed into his arms. It was the first win for the Ukrainian junior team that season—and the first gold medal for a sibling duo.

A passion for biathlon runs in the Tarasiuk family. Both parents hold the title of Master of Sports in biathlon. When Tetiana was 12, her mother founded a biathlon training group in their hometown. The young athlete fell in love with the sport immediately—and her personal journey began.

Impressive Consistency

The gold in Imatra was just the start for Tarasiuk. She went on to secure four more podium finishes in individual races and won a bronze medal with her relay team at the Junior World Championships in Arber. Her remarkable consistency throughout the season earned her second place in the overall Junior Cup standings and the small crystal globe in the sprint classification.

"Last season was incredibly exciting and full of surprises. I traveled a lot and gained my first experiences in the senior category. Winning the small crystal globe was a dream come true—something I never even dared to imagine. It was a fantastic experience that brought me immense joy."

Her medals now hang on a personalized stand, a gift from her mother. She’s still searching for the perfect spot for the crystal globe.

Ready for the Next Challenge

Tarasiuk isn’t resting on her laurels. This summer, she’s training with the senior team for the first time, embracing the challenge of competing alongside more experienced athletes.

"I’m highly motivated to reach their level. I love training in such a high-performance, competitive environment," says the 20-year-old.

She particularly admires the shooting skills of her role model, Artem Tyshchenko. In tough moments or under pressure, she leans on her father and coach.

"I can’t always handle the pressure alone. That’s why I often turn to my family and close ones for advice and support. I’m incredibly grateful to have such people in my life."

Tetiana Tarasiuk is well-supported on her journey to the top of biathlon.