Justus Strelow started the new biathlon season with a podium finish in the individual. In an exclusive conversation, the DSV athlete revealed that he had not expected second place immediately after crossing the finish line.
The result in the individual was a “nice surprise” for him personally, said Strelow sport.de.
“I knew at the finish that it would be a good result. But I never thought it would be enough for second place,” admitted the German biathlete. After all, several top favorites were still on the move at this point. But only teammate Roman Rees managed to get past Strelow.
“I felt comfortable on the track and was able to plan the race well. I still had enough reserves left on the last lap. I was almost surprised at the end at how well things were going. The prospect of a good result obviously helps a final round,” the 26-year-old analyzed his performance.
Strong shooting and good skis are the formula for success
Strelow only made one mistake in the individual biathlon on Sunday and impressed with the third best overall shooting time of all starters.
“I know that I have found a very stable system for myself, especially in the prone position, and with which I am able to shoot quickly,” said Strelow, who also focused on the standing position during preparation for the season.
The Saxon native is also aware that he also owes his success to the team behind the scenes: “We had very good skis. We are very well positioned when it comes to our ski equipment.”
Strelow crossed the finish line faster than biathlon dominator Bø
In addition to the two German biathletes, the reigning overall World Cup winner Johannes Thingnes Bø joined them on the podium on Sunday.
“It’s of course a special feeling and a special moment to stand in front of him,” said Strelow, happy about being placed directly in front of last winter’s biathlon dominator. However, Bø knows the “feeling of being hunted and knows how to deal with it if someone manages to land in front of him,” recalled the DSV ski hunter.
“I’m sure he’s begrudging us that at this moment. But I think he’ll want to turn the tables often enough in the rest of the season and will certainly be able to do that,” Strelow added, referring to the Norwegian.
It wasn’t just the German biathlon men who were able to enjoy a successful individual competition on Sunday. In the women’s category, Franziska Preuß (2nd) and Vanessa Voigt (3rd) also made it onto the podium. “The atmosphere was of course great,” Strelow gave an insight into the emotional world in the DSV district.
The interview was conducted by Jannik Kube