Two of the all-time greats are stepping down!
It was a very emotional farewell from the biathlon family to their two “kings” of biathlon when they crossed the finish line together for the last time in Oslo. Tarjei Bø and Johannes Thingnes Bø have shaped the biathlon scene over the past two decades with their many sporting successes, but also with their outstanding personalities. They have a total of 8 Olympic victories, 35 world championship titles and 6 overall World Cup victories to their credit. The joy was always greatest when the brothers made it to the podium together in their “Bødiums”. Now both exceptional athletes have decided to retire and give the family priority in the future.
When did you start cross-country skiing or biathlon?
Johannes:
I started at the very early days. I guess from when I was 2 years old. In Norway we ski for many years and start to practice biathlon when you are a little older, maybe from 8 years old. I started biathlon the year I turned 10.
Tarjei:
I guess I started skiing when I was 2 to 3 years old. Our family used skiing as a common social place for the whole family. I tried biathlon for the first time when I was 11 years old, and after that I was addicted.
What was the biggest highlight of your career?
Tarjei:
If I should find three special moments, I would say winning the overall world cup in 2011, the mass start gold medal in Nove Mesto in 2013, and the bronze medal at the sprint in Beijing Olympics together with Johannes at the podium.
Johannes:
There have been many highlights, but being number one on the medal statistics of all athletes in all sports in Beijing Olympic Games 2022 is for sure one of them.
What was your most emotional experience in your career?
Johannes:
Coming back from the birth of my first child. After 3 weeks without the best preparations and an average sleep of 3 hours the last week before the 20km in Pokljuka, I shot 20/20 and won.
Tarjei:
My first individual Olympic medal in Beijing, at the sprint competition. I had worked so hard through my career to take an individual Olympic medal, and at my 4th Olympics I finally did it.
What will happen to you after your career?
Tarjei:
I don't know. First of all, I just want to be home with my family and be together with my 2-year-old son. Relax, enjoy all the memories and have a long summer vacation for the first time.
Johannes:
I’m curious to know. It will be the only period in my life without any big plans. So, I think I will relax and take time to calm down after the professional life.
What is your biggest wish for the future?
Johannes:
Happy and healthy time with my family. Can’t wait to see sports live as well!
Tarjei:
To have a nice life together with my family. Being home during the weekends and enjoy life to the fullest!
Thank you and all the best for the future!
