Patrick Braunhofer from the Ridnauntal valley has established himself in recent years as a promising talent in the international biathlon world. Raised in a sports-enthusiastic family, he laid the foundation for his impressive career at a young age.
Already at the tender age of two or three, Patrick strapped on cross-country skis and took his first steps on the trail that ran almost directly past his parents’ house. He discovered biathlon around the age of five, when he made his first attempts at the shooting range. His first coaches were his parents, Isabella and Christian—both in leading roles within South Tyrolean biathlon—who supported and encouraged him with passion and expertise. “And they still do to this day,” Patrick emphasizes.
At the age of 16, Patrick made it into the junior national team, where he further developed his skills and deepened his love for biathlon. This early support, along with his ambition and tireless dedication to training, led to his first call-up to the A-national team in 2019—a major milestone in his still young career.
Sacrifices and Successes
In his limited free time, Patrick enjoys staying at home in the Ridnauntal Valley, where he takes in the natural beauty and the mountains. But his training schedule is demanding. During the summer, Patrick trains for three to four hours a day until early August, after which the intensity increases even further. His dedication—marked by many sacrifices—is clearly reflected in his achievements. In the junior ranks, he has already earned several medals, including bronze at the Junior European Championships, the Junior World Championships, and the Youth Olympic Games. These accomplishments have been important milestones in his rise and demonstrate his constant drive for improvement.
(Front row, from left:) Lukas Hofer, Didier Bionaz, Tommaso Giacomel, and Patrick Braunhofer, with the coaching and support team behind them
A highlight of his career so far took place on March 8, 2024, in Soldier Hollow, USA. As the lead-off skier in the relay, Patrick won his first World Cup medal. With only one spare round in the prone shooting and perfect accuracy in the standing position, he delivered an impressive performance. On the course, he gave it everything and handed over in sixth place with a narrow gap to Tommaso Giacomel. The Italian team fought their way forward, and thanks to strong performances by Didier Bionaz and anchor Lukas Hofer—who won a thrilling duel against Germany’s Philipp Nawrath—the team ultimately finished second behind Norway.
Next Goal: The 2026 Olympics
Speaking about his first World Cup podium, Patrick says: “The feeling was indescribable! I was given this unique opportunity, and luckily, I was able to make the most of it. Standing on the podium—especially with this team—was just amazing. Truly an indescribable experience.”
His future goals are clearly defined: Patrick wants to keep improving and compete regularly in the World Cup. His biggest dream in biathlon is to take part in the 2026 Olympic Games in Antholz—virtually on his doorstep. But he also has modest yet meaningful hopes for his “normal” life: good health for himself and his loved ones, a happy life, and one day, starting a family of his own.
Patrick Braunhofer is undoubtedly a name to remember in the world of biathlon. With his talent, dedication, and clear goals, a bright future may very well lie ahead.
Text: Barbara Felizetti Sorg