News article
IBU unveils digital platforms to boost youth participation
The International Biathlon Union (IBU) has reaffirmed its dedication to developing the sport by expanding access to education, research and community engagement.
IBU hopes to broaden the sport’s reach across the newly launched IBU Academy and Biathlon4All websites, as well as the corporate Instagram channel @insidebiathlon.
Developing biathlon is a core objective of IBU’s Strategic Plan Target 2030, with the aim of doubling the number of athletes. A particular focus has been placed on enticing younger participants to the sport.
IBU Development Director, Dagmara Gerasimuk, told Global Sustainable Sport: “The future of biathlon depends on engaging the next generation and giving them opportunities to experience and try the sport and become part of a thriving community. Young people are the foundation of our sport’s long-term success – be it as future athletes or future fans of biathlon.
“By making biathlon more accessible and fun for kids around the world, we can help the sport grow in a sustainable way in alignment with our Target 2030 Strategic Plan. These projects and initiatives are all about helping young people develop skills while sparking their passion for biathlon.”
"By making biathlon more accessible and fun for kids around the world, we can help the sport grow in a sustainable way in alignment with our Target 2030 Strategic Plan."
The IBU Academy has enhanced training and education among national federations, athletes and coaches through a range of programmes. Over the last two years, more than 100 coaches have graduated from the education scheme and partnerships have been signed with educational institutes to develop academic research. More than 1,000 education sessions have been conducted and made available to over 3,000 individuals via the Academy’s e-learning platform.
Elsewhere, the IBU has expanded its Biathlon for All project, which has reached nearly 130,000 children and young people through biathlon try-out activities. Additionally, 44 national federations are currently participating in the initiative during the 2024-25 season and received 500 sets of laser and optical rifles to carry out biathlon activities for children.
The goal of the new digital channels is to strengthen communication with national federations and enthusiasts, while further providing resources and programmes to enhance the appeal of biathlon across the globe.
Biathlon4All’s purpose is to make biathlon accessible and enjoyable for children and young people. The new website will equip users with details on easy-to-use shooting equipment that has been designed specifically for younger athletes; comprehensive activity toolkits offering training resources and guidelines; information on upcoming events; and ideas for organising interesting training sessions and encouraging community engagement.
Image: Aaron Doucett on Unsplash
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