Biathlon: Maya Cloetens and Jeanne Richard, a lasting friendship
On 5 March 2021, in Obertilliach (Austria), Maya Cloetens and Jeanne Richard, accompanied by Fany Bertrand, became World Youth Relay Champions. This success was achieved on behalf of France.
Since then, almost 4 years later, water has flowed under the bridge as the bi-national from Dauphiné has taken Belgian sporting nationality. Competing on the World Cup circuit since the 2022/2023 season, Maya Cloetens has been joined by Jeanne Richard for the past year. Friends in civilian life, the two biathletes regularly share training sessions or pleasure outings together.
On LinkedIn, the Belgian with three World Cup top 20 finishes talked about their friendship. “When you race internationally, you share the track with athletes from all over the world. Different nations, different styles, incredible personalities and… formidable competitors”, she begins.
“In the finish area, we slap hands with respect and good humour”.
“But there’s what you see and what you experience. Because beyond the confrontation of close shots and fierce sprints, there’s something magical about biathlon: the family spirit, she continues. You might think that rivalry reigns supreme during the effort. But in reality, we share so many emotions together: smiles, training, encouragement. We share our moments of doubt. We support each other, even in difficult times.”
“So yes, on the track, everyone gives everything for their medal. But in the finish area, we all slap hands with respect and good humour. And that’s priceless,” concludes Maya Cloetens.
- “I gave it my all, it was incredible”: another fine performance from Maya Cloetens, twentieth in the pursuit at Le Grand-Bornand
- “Last year, I was watching the race from the comfort of my own home…”. In the space of a year, Jeanne Richard, second in the Oberhof mixed relay, has really grown up.
