Last weekend, the Pyrenees welcomed their first international biathlon competition since the European Youth Olympic Winter Festival in 2007. The venue in Candanchu, near Jaca, hosted its first-ever summer Regional Event, marking a historic milestone for biathlon in Spain.

Despite challenging weather that forced the cancellation of Saturday’s race due to a storm warning, nearly 40 athletes from four different National Federations competed in the Short Individual race on Sunday. The event demonstrated the growing interest and potential of biathlon in the region.

Strong International Participation

Athletes representing Spain, Italy, Switzerland, and Serbia took part, making full use of the modern facilities at Candanchu. The men’s competition was won by Lorenzo Bonino of Italy, while the women’s race saw victory for Angela Cajal Cebrian of Spain. Please find the result lists here.

In another first, the race on Sunday was broadcast live on a local TV station ([link here]), bringing the excitement of biathlon to viewers across the region. This media coverage further amplifies the event’s role in raising awareness and interest in the sport. Please find the link to the race coverage here.

Looking Ahead

Carlos Lannes, the organizer from the NF Spain, expressed his pride in the achievement:

Lannes´ words reflect the broader vision of making biathlon more accessible in Spain and the Pyrenees, fostering local talent, and connecting with the global biathlon community.