Derived from cross-country skiing, biathlon is a discipline that can be practiced around Annecy. In clubs or through an initiation, you can easily try this sport in the ski resorts of Haute-Savoie.
The origins of biathlon
Biathlon finds its origins in Scandinavia. It was used for hunting, which was done on skis. Rock paintings over 4,000 years old have been uncovered in Norway. They show two men tracking animals on skis. A means of survival, biathlon was also used in military contexts as early as the 1700s.
The first competition took place in 1767 and pitted patrols guarding the border between Norway and Sweden against each other. But the first major international event occurred during the 1924 Winter Olympics in Chamonix. Historically, Norwegians and Finns dominate biathlon.
Today, biathlon is a very popular sport, both among athletes and spectators. It is even the most followed winter sport on the Old Continent. In France, peaks of over a million viewers have been reached since the 2015-2016 season.
Biathlon and the French
Biathlon is a sport that combines shooting precision with the power of cross-country skiing. And the French are quite skilled in this discipline. Several of them compete at a high level and have had impressive careers. Here are a few, from Haute-Savoie or residing in the heart of the department.
Martin Fourcade
Although he is not originally from the region, Martin Fourcade lives on the shores of Lake Annecy. The five-time Olympic champion honed his skills in the Jura and Vercors. Today, the most decorated French athlete at the Olympics enjoys mountain biking on MTB trails and takes advantage of the slopes of the Plateau des Glières in winter.
Lucas Chavanat
Born in Grand-Bornand, Lucas Chavanat made his official cross-country skiing debut in the 2011-2012 season. In 2015, the sprint specialist took part in his very first World Cup. The Bornandin has since climbed onto several podiums.
Justine Braisaz
Biathlete Justine Braisaz hails from the resort of Les Saisies. The Frenchwoman made her World Cup debut in the 2013-2014 season. In 2017, she stood on the top step of the podium during the mass start in Grand-Bornand. Justine Braisaz was crowned Olympic champion in 2022 during the mass start.
Where to do biathlon near Annecy?
While the vast majority of resorts offer biathlon initiations during the winter, some extend their offerings into the summer season. Here’s an overview of the resorts in Haute-Savoie, Savoie, and Isère where you can try this discipline. And if sports aren’t really your thing, why not just attend the Biathlon World Cup in Grand Bornand as a spectator? You can see high-level athletes in action.
In Haute-Savoie
The resorts in Haute-Savoie offer numerous activities during the winter season. Therefore, it is relatively easy to find one where you can have a biathlon initiation. We suggest discovering those in the department where you can try this sport:
- Le Grand Bornand
- Manigod
- La Clusaz
- Le Semnoz
- Les Contamines-Montjoie
- Le Plateau des Glières
- Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval
- Avoriaz
- Megève
- Châtel
- Praz de Lys Sommand
- Habère-Poche
- Les Carroz
In Savoie
The resorts in Savoie are not to be outdone. Many also offer vacationers the chance to try biathlon:
- Tignes
- Val d’Isère
- Courchevel
- Les Saisies
- La Plagne
- Les Arcs
- La Féclaz – Savoie Grand Revard
- Bessans
- La Giettaz
In Isère
The resorts in Isère also allow you to try biathlon. You will therefore have the opportunity to test this sport in:
Everything you need to know about biathlon
Biathlon requires specific accessories. The skis, of course, which are of the alternative style. They are, on average, 30 centimeters longer than your height. You can easily rent them at a specialized store.
Another important point is the rifle. It is not a traditional model, but one specifically designed for biathlon. Weighing between 3.5 and 6 kilos, it is loaded manually. It features an adjustable sight that adapts to the wind, as well as a guiding tunnel.
It is the alignment of this element with the sight that allows biathletes to hit the target. Additionally, the rifle has a flap that prevents snow from sneaking in through the barrel. The presence of two straps allows biathletes to carry it on their back once the shooting session is over.
For biathlon initiations, laser rifles are generally used.
The extra tip: for shoes, we recommend opting for one size larger than your usual size. You will be more comfortable, especially during descents.
The necessity of having suitable equipment
Of course, trying biathlon requires having suitable equipment. In winter, think of warm clothing, such as a ski suit. Also opt for thin gloves, which will allow you to better handle the rifle. You may need to run. Plan for multiple layers, so you can remove them if necessary. Finally, don’t forget your sunglasses.
