New biathlon rules tighten rifle handling

The International Biathlon Union (IBU) has introduced stricter regulations about how athletes handle their rifles at the shooting range. These rules require athletes to have their rifle straps fully on both shoulders and arms passed through the strap when entering and exiting the range, aiming to improve safety and fairness.

Rifle handling changes detailed in regulations

The updated rules, described in Article 8.5.4 of the IBU’s event and competition regulations, specify that athletes can only begin removing their rifles after reaching the shooting mat. Additionally, they must not start skiing again until the rifle is properly placed in the required position with the barrel pointing upward.

Top athlete reacts to new regulations

Eric Perrot, currently ranked world number one in biathlon, called the new rule burdensome but admitted it was intended to ensure safety and fairness. He learned of the changes early last spring and had to adjust his routine, gestures, and shooting protocol to avoid penalties.

Adjusting to new rules is challenging

Perrot explained that changing long-established habits is difficult, especially for reflexes developed over years of competition. He noted that breaking old reflexes to build new ones is necessary but not easy, and expressed hope that his reflexes would not "play tricks" on him during competitions.

Other athletes also affected by the rules

The new rules have impacted other athletes, including Czech biathlete Lucie Charvatova and athletes from Denmark and Greece. However, specific details about how these athletes have been affected were not provided in the report.