ABOUT BIATHLON 4 ALL
What is Biathlon 4 All?
Biathlon 4 All (B4A) aims to inspire a passion for biathlon in children and young people.
By providing access to safe and sustainable equipment and user-friendly toolkits, we ensure that newcomers to the sport have access to a fun and inclusive environment that is conducive to learning and growth.
Within the programme, the IBU supports its member National Federations (NFs) with the necessary equipment to organise recruitment events, competitions and training for young people in biathlon. We provide customisable digital assets for online promotion campaigns and engaging printed materials for use at events. We also foster a collaborative network for sharing ideas and expertise through best practice exchange and knowledge- building, together with training resources and guidelines.
We encourage active participation from NFs. This includes sharing information about events and activities, offering valuable tips and feedback, and contributing to the development of laser/optical rifles.
All digital materials are available to NFs after joining the programme.
Why Biathlon 4 All?
The IBU is committed to expanding the reach of biathlon, attracting newcomers and nurturing the next generation of athletes. As part of our strategy, we aim to:
- Increase accessibility: we provide co-funded equipment and educational campaigns—including promotional toolkits and communication materials—to make biathlon and para biathlon more accessible for all active National Federations, using laser/optical rifles and rifles with acoustic feedback for visually impaired athletes.
- Create a biathlon database: we are building a comprehensive database to track biathlon activities, events and the number of young people participating in the programme, including those involved through clubs and schools.
- Monitor participation: we will track the progress of children and young people throughout their recruitment and training journey.
- Boost domestic activities: we support National Federations in increasing their annual number of starts, active clubs, competitions and educational activities.
- Foster global collaboration: we're uniting National Federations around joint projects, promoting biathlon worldwide and creating opportunities for knowledge exchange.
- Advance equipment: we are dedicated to developing laser/optical rifles and defining IBU specifications.
Meet Shibu –
the Official Mascot of
Biathlon 4 All
Shibu, a lively dog mascot inspired by Japan's beloved Shiba Inu, is the vibrant face of the IBU's Biathlon 4 All project. Loyal, agile and energetic, Shibu reflects the spirit of biathlon - precision, resilience and teamwork.
The name combines Shiba and IBU, symbolising both cultural inspiration and the International Biathlon Union's mission to make the sport inclusive and accessible.
As an ambassador, Shibu inspires newcomers and seasoned fans alike, cheering at events, motivating children, and embodying the joy and community at the heart of biathlon.
Shibu isn't just a symbol - at IBU headquarters, a real dog owned by a staff member brings the mascot to life, embodying the same warmth and energy that connect the mascot with the biathlon community.
Who's involved in Biathlon 4 All?
International Biathlon Union (IBU)
The IBU provides sports equipment, tailored promotional campaigns, co-funding, information sharing, project coordinator connections, and inspiration for training initiatives and events organisation.
National Federations (NFs)
NFs develop action plans for youth recruitment and training, assign project coordinators, organise promotional campaigns, manage equipment, report activities, and ensure the responsible use of received resources.
Organisers
Assigned by NFs clubs, schools, and event organisers to implement action plans, collect participant information, provide media content, engage on social media and contribute to project development by sharing best practices.
How to join Biathlon 4 All
This programme is open to all IBU National Federations (NFs) and aims to make biathlon and para biathlon more popular and accessible for children and young people using laser/optical rifles. Implementation can involve recognised clubs, event organisers, and sports schools, amongst others. Each NF designates a project coordinator to support the programme's development.
If you're an NF, please apply through IBU Scope:
- Assign project coordinator.
- Outline your strategy, action plan and schedule.
- Determine your promotional budget.
Get involved
Learn more about our programmes, explore resources and discover how you can be part of B4A. If you represent a sports club, sports school or organising committee, please contact your NF to integrate your activities into their strategy and action plan.
Find a list of participating NFs and their project coordinators here.
If you have any questions about Biathlon 4 All please get in touch with us directly via email – development@ibu.at.