Biathlon: the individual, Ella Halvarsson’s favourite race
On the night of 4 December in Kontiolahti (Finland), Ella Halvarsson created a sensation on the first individual stage of the season by taking second place in the individual short. This was the Swede’s first World Cup podium in biathlon, a feat she had been slow to achieve.
This Tuesday, at the World Championships in Lenzerheide (Switzerland), the 25-year-old undoubtedly experienced even stronger emotions. In the day’s individual race, she took her place among the very best biathletes in the field. Second at the finish after a perfect 20/20, the Scandinavian won a silver medal worth its weight in gold.
“I’m laughing and crying at the same time!”Ella Halvarsson at SVT Sport
The native of Börlange (Sweden) had never before competed in a world championships for seniors, but she didn’t miss out on her first encounter with the global event. Beaten only by an outstanding Julia Simon (19/20), Ella Halvarsson simply confirmed her fine first week in which she finished ninth in the sprint and pursuit.
“My aim was to take the pressure off and do what I know how to do every day. I wanted to hit all the targets. I didn’t think I shot very well, so I can’t even begin to understand it,” he confided , visibly moved , to the microphone of SVT Sport. It’s completely crazy and I’m still speechless. I’m laughing and crying at the same time!
And the Swede was apparently not the only one holding back tears in the mixed zone. “It’s very special. Few people expected this and she’s shown that this event has worked for her since the start of the season,” admits Johannes Lukas, the national team coach. It’s impossible to describe her career. She was selected for the team on the basis of her shooting ability, and now she’s won a world champion medal. It’s absolutely incredible.
Read also
