Biathlon officials visit County this week
PRESQUE ISLE — With the countdown under way for Aroostook County’s hosting of the 2014 International Biathlon Union (IBU) Youth/Junior Biathlon World Championships, the local organizing committee is welcoming members of the IBU to the region for a visit.
In preparation for the large-scale event, three representatives from the IBU are in Presque Isle through July 12. The primary focus of their visit will be to conduct a progress inspection of the organizing committee. They will be reviewing the various competition areas that will be utilized at the Nordic Heritage Center such as the biathlon shooting range, timing mechanics, the course, venue and overall event logistics including safety and security, volunteers, hospitality accommodations, and the athlete accreditation process.
Organizers have been busily working since before the official announcement and unveiling of the event logo in February. According to event director Jane Towle, members are excited to present the IBU with the progress made thus far.
“The organizing committee members have spent weeks preparing a comprehensive World Championship plan to present to the IBU and we feel the visiting members of the IBU have great confidence in the abilities of this committee, along with the hundreds of volunteers from Nordic Heritage Center based on our past experience,” said Towle.
The international event will bring upwards of 350 of the world’s top biathletes, under the age of 21, from more than 30 countries to Aroostook County for the competition that will take place between Feb. 28-March 7, 2014.
“Everyone anticipates the inspection will be a great experience for the organizing committee and we are excited to have an opportunity to better learn the current details necessary to create a successful event for everyone,” said Towle.
