Belgium brings Olympians and young athletes together for International Biathlon Day

Belgium celebrated International Biathlon Day 2026 on 30 May at the Elsenborn National Biathlon Stadium, bringing together young athletes, Olympians, volunteers, and members of the wider sporting community for a day dedicated to discovering and celebrating biathlon.

Despite rainy weather, the event attracted strong participation and created a vibrant atmosphere centred on sport, community, and youth engagement. Visitors of all ages had the opportunity to learn about biathlon through introductory activities led by Belgian international biathletes and take part in a variety of interactive experiences.

One of the highlights of the day was a special shooting challenge featuring Olympic biathletes, cross-biathletes, and athletes from other sports. The competition proved so closely contested that, according to local media reports, it was impossible to separate the leading competitors, underlining both the quality of the participants and the friendly spirit of the event.

Pierre Ribeyron highlighted the impact of the event on younger participants:

"The event was particularly popular with young people, who had the chance to meet athletes who had competed in the Olympic Games. Thierry Langer, in particular, took part in the cross-biathlon race with the children. The competition between the cross-biathletes and the biathletes was also very well received by both sides, who hope to repeat the experience next year."

The event also provided an opportunity to recognise some of the key figures in Belgian biathlon. Olympians Marisa Emonts, Marek Mackels, and Thierry Langer were honoured during the celebrations, while biathlon pioneer Peter Thomé received the Gold Medal of Merit of the German-speaking Community of Belgium in recognition of more than 45 years of voluntary service to winter sport in Eastern Belgium.

The celebrations concluded with an official ceremony recognising volunteers, celebrating Peter Thomé's contribution to the sport, and presenting the Best Young Athlete Award for the 2025–2026 season.

By bringing together elite athletes, aspiring young biathletes, clubs, volunteers, and local communities, International Biathlon Day in Elsenborn successfully demonstrated that the joy of sport remains at the heart of biathlon and continues to inspire future generations.