Difficulty doesn’t faze French athlete Julia Simon; in fact, it’s exactly what enticed her to specialise in what’s probably the toughest skiing division there is. The 21-year-old Biathlete already has a number of European and World Championship medals under her belt, but she certainly isn’t stopping there…
What motivates you?
Biathlon is a sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. When skiing I need to be explosive and when shooting I need to be calm, so my search for perfection and enjoyment of the race motivates me to train!
How did you get started?
I started skiing from a very early age - around two or three - with my dad, and then I began downhill (Alpine) skiing at the Saisies Sports Club. We also did some parallel (Nordic) cross-country skiing and I quickly realised that although it required a lot of effort, I was more comfortable in this discipline.
When I was eight, I had to choose between Alpine and Nordic skiing and without hesitation, I found myself in the Nordic section. At the age of 16, I turned to Biathlon where I joined the Savoie Ski Committee and then the French Biathlon Team.
What is a typical day like for you?
On a typical day, I wake up at 7:30 and have a two-hour biathlon training session in the morning. I have lunch at noon, followed by a nap and then another training session in the afternoon - usually a short ski session and some jogging. In the evening I stretch and get ready to do it all again the next day!
Tell us about your most memorable adventure. Where was it? What happened?
I don’t really have one preference as I’ve experienced so many beautiful things. I’d probably say my first Junior Championships in the United States. It was my first time visiting the U.S.A and the atmosphere was great! I brought back two medals: bronze on the sprint and gold in a relay with the girls - a very good memory indeed!
What equipment or kit do you usually need for your sport?
My must-have equipment is my Salomon skis and One-Way poles, and of course my rifle and ski clothes.
How do PELI Products help protect your equipment? Which ones do you use?
PELI products help protect my rifle, which is essential! I use the PELI 1720 Case and it ensures that my rifle is safe on journeys, thanks to its robustness.
What advice would you give to aspiring Biathletes?
To take pleasure in what you do and persevere!
Julia Simon is double World Champion in Relay Junior and has won four medals at the European Championships. Follow her Biathlon adventures on: