The weather caused significant problems on Monday at Rudno Polje with heavy rainfall and rising temperatures. Around 300 workers from the competition’s organising committee are working hard to prepare the infrastructure and tracks. A revised competition schedule, agreed upon with the International Biathlon Union, aims to ensure fair conditions for all competitors.
“Given the weather conditions, I hope we will be able to complete the race,” said Tim Farčnik, Secretary General of the BMW IBU World Cup Organising Committee in Pokljuka. However, he remains optimistic, trusting in the experienced team and the support of the Slovenian Armed Forces.
The weather challenges are just the latest issue in this year’s event. Numerous obstacles related to the natural environment of Triglav National Park had to be addressed. In addition to environmental sensitivities, this year’s competition coincides with the mating season of the Western Capercaillie, a species that inhabits an area just 1.5 to 2 kilometres from the biathlon centre.
“That’s why we agreed on certain restrictions with all stakeholders. The number of daily visitors is limited to 3,000, and all spectators will be transported to Rudno Polje via organised shuttles. Traffic regulations are also strict— the road from Mrzli Studenec is open only for accredited vehicles,” Farčnik explained.
Noise levels are also strictly controlled, with a set upper limit, and the use of light signals is significantly reduced and limited to the competitions.
Additionally, there will be no accompanying entertainment programme at Pokljuka, as all planned events will take place in Bled on Friday and Saturday from 6 PM to 9 PM.
Jelko Kacin, President of the Organising Committee, remains optimistic as well, emphasizing: “The competitions in Pokljuka are important for the biathlon sport, its development, growth, and future in Slovenia. They are also crucial for the infrastructure of the biathlon centre.”
“This year has been particularly challenging, first due to environmental criteria. Until the last moment, we were not 100% certain that we would be awarded the race. In the end, we succeeded and also retained the trust of the International Biathlon Union, which has included us in the programme for the next Olympic cycle.”
Kacin also highlighted that the weather challenges are far from over: “In the upcoming days, we will need to transport large amounts of snow to ensure that all races can take place as planned.”
Despite all the complications this year, Pokljuka takes pride in securing three races for the next four-year period. “Two of these races will take place in an excellent New Year’s time slot, which will provide us with more opportunities despite all the challenges. At the same time, it demonstrates the trust IBU has in our organisation. I believe this will also be a great opportunity to involve more young people in the sport,” he added.
In all of this, the unwavering support of sponsors is crucial. One of the key sponsors is Zavarovalnica Triglav, who will be organising the Children of Triglav initiative for the 10th time this year. “Over the past ten years, we have brought 22,000 children and young people to Pokljuka, giving them a unique opportunity to experience the races and spend a day with their idols,” said Tjaša Kolenc Filipčič, Marketing Director at Zavarovalnica Triglav.
“We want athletes to be role models for young people and to help develop a strong fan spirit,” she added. This year, Triglav has also prepared various challenges for young participants—such as cooking recipes using local ingredients to promote sustainability, a banner competition, and a cheerleading dance challenge.