In recent years, Andi Birnbacher has had some of the most talented German biathletes under his wing. At the start of the preparations for the new season, the former ski hunter was able to welcome a newcomer to his training group.
What is meant is Charlotta de Buhr, who has made the decision to change disciplines. After a few years in cross-country skiing, the 20-year-old now wants to gain a foothold in biathlon.
“I’ve been planning this for a long time and toyed with biathlon,” revealed de Buhr, who is starting for SC Aising/Pang, in an interview with the “chiemgau24.de” portal.
She recently picked up tips from Germany’s longstanding model biathlete Denise Herrmann-Wick. In some pictures that the latter shared on Instagram, she could be seen practicing at the shooting range with de Buhr.
“The youngsters are getting ready,” wrote the Olympic champion under the photos. Herrmann-Wick also switched from cross-country skiing to biathlon.
Biathlon newcomer “looks forward to the challenges”
Late starter de Buhr once joined the XC3 cross-country skiing team shortly before her 16th birthday. There she learned from top star Tobi Angerer, among others.
In mid-April, de Buhr then revealed on social media that he wanted to compete in another winter sports discipline in the future. “Biathlon is calling! I’m looking forward to the new challenges,” said the 20-year-old.
In the junior area, de Buhr had indicated several times in the past that he was rightly one of the country’s greatest ski hopes. In between, however, she also had to cope with health setbacks.
With what ambitions the sport changer goes into the new season and how the DSV plans them is not yet known. However, she is sure of the support of her mentor Denise Herrmann-Wick.