International Biathlon Day 2026 in Japan
Japan will celebrate International Biathlon Day 2026 with the “Biathlon Festival 2026 × Laser Biathlon Japan Cup 2026 in Sapporo”, taking place on 31 May at the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium in Sapporo, Hokkaido.
The event will run from approximately 09:00 to 12:30 and will combine competition, athlete interaction, and introductory activities designed to promote biathlon among children, youth, families, and new participants in a fun and accessible environment.
The programme will begin with reception activities from 08:30, followed by the official opening ceremony at 09:00. From 09:20 to 10:20, participants will have the opportunity to train and practice with Japanese national team athletes before the official competitions begin.
The “Laser Biathlon Japan Cup” competition programme will feature running biathlon races across multiple age categories for boys, girls, women, and men. Younger categories will complete shorter running loops combined with prone shooting at larger targets, while older categories will compete on longer courses including both prone and standing shooting challenges.
The races will include:
200m and 400m running loops depending on age category
Laser rifle shooting in prone and standing positions
Separate competition categories for youth and adult participants
Official races will take place from approximately 10:30 to 12:00, followed by a closing ceremony beginning at 12:15.
Alongside the competitions, a dedicated “Try-It Zone” will operate from 09:30 to 12:00, giving visitors and beginners the opportunity to experience laser rifle shooting and discover the basics of biathlon in a safe and beginner-friendly setting.
Through this festival, Japan aims to increase awareness of biathlon, inspire future athletes, and strengthen connections between elite athletes, aspiring competitors, and local communities as part of the global celebration of International Biathlon Day.
