Camille Bened and Isak Frey claimed the IBU Cup Total Score title for the 2024/2025 season, a feat far tougher than it seems. Bened fights for a spot in the world’s most dominant women’s biathlon team while fending off rising stars like Amandine Menign and Voldiya Galmace-Paulin. Meanwhile, Frey has conquered nearly everything—Junior Sprint World Champion, multiple European golds, and now the IBU Cup crown—earning his shot at the BMW IBU World Cup.

BW: What was the first thought that crossed your mind when you knew the Total Score is yours?

CB: At first, I felt happiness and joy. Then my back started to seize. I had a nasty fall on Wednesday. On the morning of the deciding competition, I felt like an elderly woman. I could barely move. A good warm-up and adrenaline carried me through the day. Then I was back in pain. I also thought I might have a good chance to start the next season in the World Cup.

IF: I was actually surprised. I was not aware my point advantage over Sivert (Bakken) was big enough to win a week before the season’s end. When the coaches told me that the Total Score is mine, it felt very cool.

BW: What does winning the IBU Cup Total Score represent for you?

CB: To win a Total Score means you were the most consistent among the best athletes in the field over four months. And that is not easy at all. I know what I am talking about as I lost almost two entire seasons to injuries or illness. I am very proud of this achievement. It is a realisation of my dreams. Of course, I have even bigger dreams, but winning the IBU Cup Total Score was one of them. Last year I saw Oceane Michelon holding the trophy and now it is me.

IF: It has been a crazy good season, a great ride from the opening race in Idrefjall until here, in Otepaa. It was a goal for me before the season. So, I am really happy.

BW: What was your defining moment of the season?

CB: Finishing second in the Pursuit in the first week of Otepaa as it brought me the Pursuit Cup Score win - the first in my career.

IF: It's hard to choose just one moment; I believe my stability has been my greatest strength. The highlight has to be winning the gold in the Individual at the Open European Championships in Martell-Val Martello.

BW: What is the first thing you will do after the end of season?

CB: I will celebrate with my family. My dad, mum and sisters are always there for me, supporting me in good times and in best times. There are many people who are part of this win, family, coaches, technicians, friends.

IF: I am not an extrovert so I am not that good on parties. I will play golf with my friends and family.

BW: If there is one thing you would like to know about your future, what would it be?

CB: That win a gold medal at the Olympic Winter Games 2030 in French Alps, in Annecy - Le Grand-Bornand.

IF: That I am an Olympic champion.

Photo: Hendrik Osula