German Biathletes Achieve Double Podium at Schalke

German biathletes brought in the year 2024 with a thrilling performance at the World Team Challenge held in Schalke. In the mixed events, Anna Weidel and Justus Strelow finished in second place, while their teammates Franziska Preuß and Philipp Nawrath secured third place. The competition, part of its 21st edition, attracted close to 50,000 spectators who enjoyed outstanding athletic performances despite no World Cup points being awarded in these exhibition events.

The duo of Weidel/Strelow crossed the finish line in the pursuit after five penalties with a time of +30.4 seconds behind the leaders. Preuß and Nawrath followed, also putting in a solid performance with three penalties and a final time of +33.1 seconds. Both Weidel and Strelow expressed their enjoyment, highlighting the fantastic atmosphere at the event.

Norway's Karoline Offigstad Knotten and Sturla Holm Laegreid took the top spot, demonstrating remarkable shooting skills. The German teams continued to aim for their first home victory at Schalke since Simon Schempp and Vanessa Hinz won in 2016, with Preuß arriving as one of the favorites in high spirits after several successful races previously.

For the German biathletes, the upcoming home World Cups in Oberhof and Ruhpolding offer another chance to build momentum ahead of the World Championships in Lenzerheide this February.