Norwegian star overlooked – rookie gets opportunity in the World Cup

Norwegian star Johannes Dale-Skjevdal has been dropped from the World Cup team for Hochfilzen, confirmed by the Norwegian Biathlon Federation in a press release. Dale-Skjevdal had a disappointing weekend in Kontiolahti, finishing 63rd in the short normal hill, followed by 23rd and 21st in the sprint and mass start events, respectively.

In his place comes Martin Uldal, who has started the IBU Cup season strongly, winning the last two races and securing two thirds and one second place earlier this season.

Per Arne Botnan, the national coach, explained the decision, saying, "The junior guys are knocking hard on the door with strong performances in the IBU Cup, while Dale-Skjevdal hasn’t achieved the results needed in Kontiolahti. We have chosen to give this place to Martin Uldal, who has two wins and three podiums out of six races."

The full selection for the World Cup races in Hochfilzen includes:

Women - Juni Arnekleiv, Dombås IL - Emilie Ågheim Kalkenberg, Skonseng UL - Maren Hjelmeseth Kirkeide, Markane IL - Karoline Offigstad Knotten, Vingrom IL - Gro Njølstad Randby, IL Ivrig - Marit Øygard, Skrautvål IL

Men - Johannes Thingnes Bø, Markane IL - Tarjei Bø, Markane IL - Vetle Sjåstad Christiansen, Geilo IL - Sturla Holm Lægreid, Bærums Skiklubb - Endre Strømsheim, Bærums Skiklubb - Vebjørn Sørum, Søndre Ål Sportsklubb - Martin Uldal, Birkenes IL