Laura Dahlmeier criticized the awarding of the Winter Games to South Korea at the Olympic clothing fair in Munich on Monday. She also spoke about her goals in Pyeongchang, while Simon Schempp sympathized with Ole-Einar Björndalen.
SPOX was there and summarized the most important statements of the German biathlon aces.
Laura Dahlmeier about….
… Olympic preparation: The most important thing is to get the best performances at the climax. This is my claim again this year. I have tried to steer the whole training so that I am in top form when it matters most – something I have done very well in the last few years. I hope it works this time too.
… the goals at Olympia: I am healthy and fit. Accordingly, I want to attack the podium places. Whether things always end up the way you want them to, is in the stars. I’ll do my best, though.
… the security problems in South Korea: I’m not currently worried about that. The DOSB advises us very well and I believe that there are currently no security gaps. I just hope that we can fully concentrate on the sport and enjoy great games.
… other sports: Last time I was lucky that I didn’t run all the races and therefore had more time to enjoy the Olympic flair and watch different competitions. This year it will be a bit different, but I try to get in touch with athletes from other sports and nations. If I had to look at something else, Ski Alpin would be very appealing to me, I used to do it myself.
… the Olympic Games in South Korea: I see them critically. We all wish that the Olympic Games would take place in Central Europe, the cradle of winter sports, and return to us. That would be very important.
Simon Schempp on…
… the upcoming World Cup in Antholz: Antholz suits me very, very well. I run enormously there and there are a lot of German fans. Of course the pressure is there, but it’s also more fun.
… my own form: I hope I can improve a bit up to Pyeongchang – this is especially true for the shooting range, where I can spare myself some mistakes. Then I’m very competitive.
… Ole-Einar Björndalen’s non-nomination:”That is a pity. But I’m sure he takes it sporty and wouldn’t be a guy who just drives there to be there. He would have a certain claim on himself. Unfortunately, he was not competitive and did not provide the required services. I think that’s almost more worms him than the fact that he’s not there.