Korea Students Cup brings laser biathlon to Alpensia

From 4 to 6 January 2026, the Korea Students Cup took place at the Alpensia Biathlon Center, combining traditional racing with laser rifle formats for younger athletes. The event gathered 250 participants, including 130 athletes and 120 spectators, parents, and staff.

Sprint races featured laser rifles for competitors up to middle school level, with age-specific distances. Under-12 athletes completed a 1km–shoot–1km–shoot–0.5km format, while under-16 participants raced 1.5km loops with prone and standing shooting stages. Older athletes competed under standard distances, with 10km for men and 7.5km for women.

Relay events also incorporated laser rifles for younger categories, with teams of three covering 3km each. Senior relays followed longer formats, with men racing 3 x 7.5km and women 3 x 6km.

The competition highlighted the integration of laser technology in youth biathlon, supporting skill development while maintaining a safe and accessible pathway into the sport.