Johanna Puff has had a season with many highlights. First her debut in the World Cup, then victory in the IBU Cup and in Nove Mesto na Morave she was able to experience her first Biathlon World Championships as an athlete. Now she wants to pick up where she left off. She has already achieved this at the City Biathlon in Dresden: With second place among world-class athletes.

Biathlonworld: Johanna, how did your premiere at the City Biathlon in Dresden go?

Johanna Puff: It was a very cool competition. The fans were enthusiastic and we as athletes were particularly aware of that because the stands were so close to the course. The backdrop here in Dresden makes running fun. I was impressed by the historic buildings such as the Semper Opera House and the Frauenkirche. It makes me want to come back, because unfortunately I did not have much time this weekend to see more.

BW: How do you rate a summer event like the City Biathlon from a sporting perspective?

JP: For me personally, it is a major step in my preparation. There is no better training than a competition. I cannot simulate the atmosphere of running in front of fans in training. Now it is time to keep working, get better and attack in the winter.

BW: How has your preparation been so far?

JP: It has been a good summer for me. I was able to complete my training with the federal police and can now concentrate 100 percent on the sport. I am happy with my results at the German Championships in Altenberg, especially with my second place in the short individual.

BW: What was your focus during training? What did you want to improve?

JP: I concentrated on shooting faster. Training with my colleagues from the federal police helped me to do that. I also improved my upper body strength.

BW: What does your path look like now until the start of the new season?

JP: We are now at a training camp in France for three weeks, followed by a week of training in Oberhof. At the beginning of November, we fly to Vuokatti (Finland) for the qualification races for the World Cup. The start of the season comes sooner than you think.

BW: What are your plans for the season?

JP: I am fighting for a starting place in the World Cup.

BW: Apart from the competitions, what are you looking forward to most this winter?

JP: I am most looking forward to seeing the athletes from the other nations again. During the summer and fall, I train with my team at the base, but I do not see the international athletes all year round. It is always special for me when everyone comes together again.

BW: What did you do in the summer that you do not have time for in the winter?

JP: Studying! For my exams with the federal police, so I did not have as much free time this summer. But on my days off, I met up with my friends from home, took lots of photos and relaxed.

Photos: IBU