The 22-year-old from Norway reveals the key to his breakthrough. Together with Olympic medalist Maren Kirkeeide, he secured a Norwegian double victory in the biathlon U23 World Cup overall.

The Norwegian biathlon talents have not only established themselves among the world’s best but also won the overall U23 World Cup, with Isak Frey and Maren Kirkeeide, respectively.

From IBU Cup to Olympics in under a year

Isak Frey made his World Cup debut in March last year, claimed his first individual podium in January, and earned a place in the Olympic squad for Milano-Cortina this winter, albeit as a reserve.

For the 22-year-old from Bærum, his first individual podium remains a highlight of the season.

“My first podium of my career was very important. I finished third in the sprint in Ruhpolding. It meant a lot to see that I can challenge the very best when I’m at my best. And I shared the podium with Sebastian Samuelsson and Tommaso Giacomel,” Frey told the IBU.

Difference in level

After his first full season in the World Cup, Frey clearly notices the difference from the IBU Cup, the level just below.

“The difference is bigger than I expected. What surprised me most was how fast the top athletes ski and shoot. At the beginning, I needed time to adjust to the level. I had to push myself much more on every lap than before. It became easier over time, but I’m still learning something new every day.”

Frey credits part of his success to fellow development team athlete Johan-Olav Botn, who also won Olympic gold in the individual event.

“I’ve been on the same team as Johan-Olav Botn for several years. We competed together in the IBU Cup and trained a lot together. He always pushed me, and he’s still ahead of me. He showed me what it takes in training. Now he’s an Olympic champion, and I won the U23 overall. I wouldn’t have made it without him,” says Frey.

Three Olympic medals at first attempt

Maren Kirkeeide returned home from her first Olympic Games with three medals, one of each color, and says the experience was the clear highlight of her season.

“The whole Olympic experience was very special. Not just the competitions and medals, but also the social side. We had fun at the hotel and did things outside the arena. It’s a great group to travel with,” she says.

What happens to the Olympic medals now?

“They’re with my grandparents now. They’ll probably stay there. In a way, that’s also my home. I spend the whole summer holidays with them and have been with them a lot over the years,” the 23-year-old told Langrenn.com after the World Cup final in Holmenkollen.

In addition, she also receives the U23 overall trophy for winning the U23 World Cup.

Are you interested in biathlon? Click HERE and read more about it.