Coach Filbrich: Biathlon successes "not a flash in the pan"

For co-coach Jens Filbrich, the surprising successes of the German biathletes are anything but a coincidence. "It is of course a very nice situation. The number of good results and podium places shows that this was not a flash in the pan," the 44-year-old told the newspaper "Freies Wort". They can be proud of what they have achieved.

With victories by Roman Rees, Philipp Nawrath and Benedikt Doll as well as podium places for Justus Strelow and Nawrath, the German ski hunters provided unexpected highlights in the first three World Cups of the winter. Former world-class cross-country skier Filbrich, Olympic relay bronze medalist in 2002 and silver medalist in 2006, has been part of the coaching staff in Oberhof for six months. The first German World Cup of the season will be held there from January 1 to 7.

After the retirement of Olympic champion Denise Herrmann-Wick, the women are still without a win. Franziska Preuß finished second twice, Vanessa Voigt third twice. According to Filbrich, there is no need to worry. "There's no need to worry," said the Thuringian. "With Hanna Kebinger, Julia Tannheimer, Sophia Schneider and Selina Grotian, we have a lot of talented athletes who have impressed in the IBU Cup and in some cases already in the World Cup. I think we can look forward to what's to come."