Young athletes shine at HAPPY700 Laser Biathlon event

The HAPPY700 Laser Rifle Competition took place from 9 to 11 January 2026 at the Alpensia Biathlon Center, drawing 209 participants, including 109 athletes and 100 spectators, parents, and staff.

Open to elementary, middle school, and high school categories, the event featured sprint and relay races, with laser rifles used for athletes up to middle school level. Under-12 competitors raced a 1km–shoot–1km–shoot–0.5km course, while under-16 athletes completed longer loops with both prone and standing shooting stages. Older participants competed over standard distances of 10km for men and 7.5km for women.

Relay races included teams of three, with younger athletes covering 3km each using laser rifles, while senior categories followed longer formats.

The competition reinforced the role of laser technology in youth biathlon, supporting safe participation and athlete development within a professional competition setting.