Eastern Region International Competition Trip Provides Valuable International Racing Experience to Developing Biathletes
by Sara Donatello
The upcoming 2026 Eastern Region International Competition Trip to Norway is an exciting opportunity for developing biathletes to gain invaluable international training and racing experience. Organized in partnership with U.S. Biathlon and open to athletes from all regions, this trip gives competitors a chance to train and race abroad in elite winter sport environments, an important step for those looking to elevate their competitive careers beyond traditional IBU Cups and Junior Circuit races.
From March 2-8, 2026, athletes will participate in a training camp in Lillehammer, NOR. This setting offers world-class coaching, intense training sessions, and experience training alongside some of the country’s best developing biathletes. Following the camp, athletes will travel to Gronjaer, Norway for the ASKO Cup (March 12-15), where they will put their training to the test against a strong European field.
In addition to the core camp and competition experiences, there is an optional component for participants to attend the BMW IBU World Cup finale at the famous Holmenkollen venue in Oslo, NOR from March 19-22, allowing them to witness top-level biathlon competition firsthand.
The Eastern Region International Competition Trip is designed to broaden competitive horizons for emerging U.S. biathletes and provide a pathway for growth in the sport. U.S. Biathlon extends a thank you to John Madigan and the Eastern Region for coordinating the second iteration of this International Competition Trip. For more information on the trip opportunities, and how to apply, click HERE.