Latvian biathlete Andrej Rastorgujev marked a meaningful milestone yesterday, securing his first podium finish of the season and the third in his professional career at the World Cup stage.
During the 20 km individual race at the fifth stage in rupolding, Rastorgujev, hailing from Aluk, committed just one shooting error but still clinched the bronze medal. He was outpaced by Norway’s Webjern Særum and France’s Emilien Claude, who demonstrated flawless shooting.rastorgujev trailed the winner by 56.8 seconds and the Frenchman by a mere 4.7 seconds. “This medal is a stepping stone. I’ll celebrate modestly,focus on recovery,and aim for more podiums in upcoming races,” he remarked.
I owe this success to my team and the ski technicians who prepared everything perfectly. My job was simply to ski. I only knew I’d secured a top position after crossing the finish line,”
Rastorgujev shared his joy in an interview with LTV7, celebrating his first-ever medal in the individual distance at this level. simultaneously occurring, Renārs Birkenthal finished 45th with two penalty minutes, while Edgars mise and Aleksandrs Patrijuks placed 73rd and 95th, respectively, with three and five shooting errors. In the national rankings, crucial for Olympic qualification, Latvia advanced two spots to 15th place.The top 20 nations at the season’s end will secure four spots for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Stay connected with LASI.LV on your preferred social media platform: facebook, XBluesky,Friends,or Instagram. Join our community to access curated,timely,and insightful content tailored for you.
Subscribe to the LASI.LV editor’s newsletter here.
By signing up, you’ll receive a weekly digest of the latest news, expert opinions, and exclusive interviews from the LASI.LV editorial team.
