IBU Junior Cup: Anton Dudchenko and Julia Simon Win Individuals

Anton Dudchenko of Ukraine, with one penalty won for the first time today, claiming victory in the 15K individual at IBU Junior Cup 1 finishing 1.4 seconds ahead of Russia's Kirill Streltsov, with two penalties and 15.9 seconds ahead of France's Feli Cottet Puinel in third, with one penalty.

"It was hard day for me on the track today, my skis were gliding well in some places on the track and not so well in other parts, because half of the track is out in the sun and the other half is the shadow."

Despite winning the first Junior Cup competition of the season, the 20-years old Ukrainian admits that his current shape is not perfect.

"My form is not at peak at the moment. We did our season preparations took place in low ground and now we are competing at a decent height, it is tough."

Extremely Happy

Dudchenko could not hide his smile away after his successful competition.

"Overall I am very happy with my result, this preseason I trained with our men’s World Cup team and I learned a lot. Also glad that I justified my trainers hopes. Right now I am super motivated and extremely happy."

Women's 12.5K Individual

France's Julia Simon was outstanding on the tracks, finishing 58.6 second ahead of her nearest competitor Janina Hettich of Germany who shot clean, but could not challenge Simon's ski speed. Russian Ekaterina Moshkova secured third place 2 minutes back, with two penalties.

Simon commented, "It is a very good day for me, my shape was perfect today and my shooting was good, I am happy for this result."

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