Bukovel Biathlon Stadium hosts Open Prykarpattia Cup on International Biathlon Day

This event took place in the heart of the Ukrainian Carpathian Mountains at the Bukovel Biathlon Stadium on 30 May 2026. It brought together participants from five regions of Western Ukraine, which is why the competition was named the Open Prykarpattia Cup.

The event was conducted exclusively using laser rifles from Kiwi Precision, making biathlon more accessible and safe for young athletes.

Age Categories

The following age groups participated in the competition:

• Group I – athletes born in 2012–2013 (boys and girls);

• Group II – athletes born in 2014–2015 (boys and girls);

• Group III – athletes born in 2016–2017 and younger (boys and girls).

Competition Programme

Sprint

• Group I: 3 laps of 400 m;

• Group II: 3 laps of 300 m;

• Group III: 3 laps of 200 m.

Mixed Relay (2 girls + 2 boys)

• Group I: 3 laps of 400 m for each relay leg;

• Group II: 3 laps of 300 m for each relay leg;

• Group III: 3 laps of 200 m for each relay leg.

In addition to the official competition programme, the event began with a masterclass led by members of the Ukrainian National Biathlon Team: Oleksandr Bilanenko, Dmytro Kriukov, and Ivan Steblyna.

The event was also supported by national team coaches Serhii Zots and Oleksandr Semenov, who shared insights about the national team, participation in competitions, and the preparation process required to perform at the highest level. They also discussed interesting aspects of elite athlete training and competition preparation.

A unique aspect of the event was that professional athletes had the opportunity to assist with officiating duties as a referees at the shooting range during the competitions. It was a new competitive experience for them and at the same time it was so encouraging for participants.

"By involving professional athletes in youth events, we aim to inspire and motivate young participants by showing them what can be achieved through dedication and hard work in sport. Elite athletes have a direct and powerful influence on the younger generation and serve as important role models," - Lily Budzulyak, B4A Project Coordinator in Ukraine.

For many participants, this was their first visit to a professional biathlon stadium and their first opportunity to meet and interact with national team athletes in person.

The children gained invaluable experience and left the event with many positive emotions and lasting memories.

In the team standings, representatives of the Volyn region won the Open Prykarpattia Cup. The team from Ternopil became silver medalists, while the team from Zakarpattia earned the bronze medals.