At just 19 years of age, Manca Caserman will represent Slovenia in biathlon at the Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina. She was one of the most successful athletes at the IBU Junior Open European Championships in Imatra. Now she gets to take to the big stage.

But before heading to Italy, Manca answered our questions.

Biathlonworld: Gold medal in the sprint, silver in the mixed relay. Manca, how satisfied are you with the competitions at the Junior European Championships in Imatra?

Manca Caserman: I am delighted with the medals and very pleased that I was able to stabilize my shooting. My ski time was also good. Nevertheless, I still see things that I can improve on.

BW: How has the season been for you so far?

MC: I wasn't satisfied with my races in the IBU Junior Cup in December. I simply made too many shooting mistakes. It was good for me that there was a break in competition over Christmas. I came back stronger in January and was able to compete in the World Cup in Oberhof for the first time. That was a special moment. I was able to improve my performance at the Junior Cup in Madona and finished on the podium twice.

BW: Before the season started, could you have imagined competing in the World Cup?

MC: Definitely not. It came as a big surprise to me, but I am very grateful that I was given this opportunity. It was all very exciting. Suddenly I was standing next to the biathletes I used to admire when I watched biathlon on television. At the same time, the large crowds and cameras were new to me and the races were exhausting. But I learned a lot.

BW: At just 19 years of age, you have qualified for the Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina. Is this a childhood dream come true for you?

MC: Yes, like for many other athletes, the Olympic Games are the biggest thing for me too. I hope that I will be in good shape and can enjoy the races there. I don't feel any pressure to perform there. I will use the next few days to recover and then start preparing for the Games.

BW: If there is a day without biathlon, what do you do?

MC: I spend time with my family, my friends and my dog.

Biathlon fans should remember the name Manca Caserman. It is quite possible that she will be appearing on the big stage more often in the coming years.

Photos: IBU I Koksarov, Authamayou