The start of the new biathlon season did not go to France’s top star Justine Braisaz-Bouchet’s liking. The Olympic champion then admitted: Her own head is (still) a problem.
Justine Braisaz-Bouchet can actually approach the biathlon season without much pressure. The 29-year-old no longer has to prove anything to anyone, has been one of the best ski hunters in the world for many years and is almost traditionally involved in the fight for the top places in every race.
However, her weak start in the first two individual races in Östersund triggered something in the Frenchwoman. She only came 63rd in the individual and only 47th in the sprint – before the pursuit, she admitted in the “L’Équipe” interview, she began to ponder.
“There was a lot at stake. I have to admit that I approached the race with a little pressure, but also with a smile,” said Braisaz-Bouchet, who remembered her coaches’ approach. He said, “We have to take it race by race and live in the now”.
Biathlon star falls into her own trap
The Olympic champion also managed this in the pursuit. From 47th place they moved up to 13th place. “Even if you start 47th, it’s never about nothing. I know the rules of the game very well. I didn’t get a single World Cup point this week. This calculation runs very quickly in my brain,” explained the 29-year-old.
Ultimately, she also knows her capabilities. “I know what I’m capable of, for better or for worse. I feel fit. Running was never a problem, at least not at the beginning of the season. It’s really just about building up consistency at the shooting range,” said the Frenchwoman, who admitted that this is exactly what she still finds difficult.
“It’s so difficult because I fall into the ‘I’m trying too hard’ trap. So I’m almost my own worst enemy or my best friend. Everything depends on me,” Braisaz-Bouchet explained, explaining that the solution to her starting problems is mainly in her head.