Biathlon Squad Announced: 22-Year-Old to Make World Cup Debut

The biathlon teams for the season's first World Cup event have been announced, and for the first time, Gro Njølstad Randby's name appears on the roster. The men's selection featured most places already filled before the season's opening at Sjusjøen, and three of the six women’s spots were also pre-determined.

With the World Cup starting on November 30, the Norwegian Biathlon Federation has confirmed the two teams. Notably, Vebjørn Sørum has secured a available slot for the opening week in Kontiolahti, while Maren Hjelmeset Kirkeide, Gro Njølstad Randby, and Emilie Ågheim Kalkenberg will compete in the women's team.

Sørum made a strong impression during the sprint event at Sjusjøen, finishing a close second, just 2.4 seconds behind Vetle Sjåstad Christiansen. This same selection criterion applied to the women's team, recognizing those who achieved podium finishes at Sjusjøen.

“With three open spots on the women's side, it was simple; all three entrants had A-merit (top-three placements),” said national team coach Per Arne Botnan.

22-year-old Randby is making her debut selection after a remarkable sprint finish, achieving third place. Here’s the complete list of selected athletes:

Women:
- Juni Arnekleiv, Dombås IL
- Emilie Ågheim Kalkenberg, Skonseng UL
- Maren Hjelmeset Kirkeide, Markane IL
- Karoline Offigstad Knotten, Vingrom IL
- Gro Njølstad Randby, Ivrig IL
- Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold, Fossum IF

Men:
- Johannes Thingnes Bø, Markane IL
- Tarjei Bø, Markane IL
- Vetle Sjåstad Christiansen, Geilo IL
- Johannes Dale, Fet Skiklubb
- Sturla Holm Lægreid, Bærums Skiklubb
- Endre Strømsheim, Bærums Skiklubb
- Vebjørn Sørum, Søndre Ål Sportsklubb.