For Ilona Plechacova, the 2024/2025 season felt like a dream. She became youth world champion, made her World Cup debut during the World Championship relay in Lenzerheide and competed in her first World Cup race in front of her home fans in Nové Město na Moravě. She did all this, despite being just 18 years old.

“My most memorable moment so far was definitely getting the chance to compete in the World Cup on home ground in Nové Město na Moravě. I took part in the relay, and the atmosphere and support from the fans were incredible. I really enjoyed every second of it, and it’s something I’ll never forget.” Ilona Plechacova recalls her first World Cup appearance in her home country, the Czech Republic. She passed the test in front of 35,000 spectators. With only three spare rounds, she delivered a solid performance at the shooting range.

The start of the season did not go as the 18-year-old had hoped. She competed in the IBU Junior Cup in Ridnaun but failed to finish in the top 15. She then moved up to the IBU Cup in Obertilliach and Arber, but her results were also unsatisfactory for her. It was not until January's IBU Junior Cup in Jakuszyce that she regained her usual strength and won the sprint with a clean shooting. The start of an amazing season.

From the IBU Junior Cup to the World Championships in just a few weeks

The coming weeks were intense for Plechacova. She competed for the first time in the World Cup team in the relay at the World Championships in Lenzerheide. She won gold in the individual at the Youth World Championships in Oestersund. She also won two bronze medals in the sprint and mass start 60. Immediately afterwards, she went to the home World Cup in Nové Město na Moravě, where she also competed in the relay again, and then on to her first individual race in the World Cup in the sprint in Oslo. “I didn’t expect it. It was something incredible. I can’t even put into words how I felt. I lived through every second of that moment of glory, and I’m so grateful for it.”

What happens next?

“My main goal for the upcoming season is definitely the Junior World Championships, where I’d like to achieve a strong result. For me, that means finishing in the top ten. It definitely won’t be easy, but I’ll do my absolute best. I’d also like to possibly fight for a spot at the Olympic Games in Italy.” To this end, she wants to improve her shooting power.

Plechacova is a shy and down-to-earth person who does not like to be in the spotlight. When she is not training or competing in winter, she spends time with her family and friends. The family dog is usually there too, and she would like to have more time for him. She focuses on her sporting goals. She does not have a role model, but she tries to learn from many athletes. “I think what makes me unique as an athlete is my mindset I never give up, even when things don’t go my way. I’m always trying to learn, stay positive, and give 100 percent in everything I do and also, I don’t just train because I have to, I genuinely love what I do.” What a great foundation for further success as a biathlete.

Photos: IBU I Koksarov