Latvian biathlete Patrijuks, while not selected to compete in the Olympic team this year, shares his excitement for the upcoming Olympic Games and notes the competitive nature of this season's biathlon events. He emphasizes that a diverse pool of leaders and emerging stars will make the competition even more thrilling, despite established athletes like Johannes and Tarje Bē also participating. Competing at high altitudes, such as Antholz, adds to the challenge, but Patrijuks feels confident that top athletes will manage well under these conditions, as they are accustomed to training in similar settings.

He elaborates on the initial challenges athletes face during the first days of competition at high elevations, as their bodies acclimatize to the thinner air. According to Patrijuks, the early days can be particularly tough, but familiarity with the terrain can provide a competitive edge. He also discusses innovations in biathlon, including a 3D-printed rifle developed by Martins Uldāls that improves the efficiency of shooting by reducing wind resistance, which could play a significant role in the precision and speed of the competitors.

With so much at stake, Patrijuks acknowledges the importance of shooting accuracy in the classic distance events, as it can heavily influence the outcome of races. He also highlights key favorites in the competition, signifying the competitive atmosphere that the Olympic Games are likely to present. Patrijuks's insights provide a glimpse into the strategies and dynamics of the sport and further reveal how technological advancements and elite training regimes are reshaping the landscape of biathlon.