Dear Biathlon Family,

 Despite the global pandemic, at the Biathlon Integrity Unit we have maintained a robust in and out of competition testing programme. However, as a modern sports integrity unit, our testing programme must evolve to lead with the most progressive and holistic approaches to anti-doping, and that means ensuring we are equipped to deal not only with those who cheat, but more importantly, those who encourage and support cheating within our sport. 

 This means that, as we enter 2021, testing within our sport will become more unpredictable and targeted, using the best information and cutting-edge intelligence analysis. That means working closely with those across our sport to maximise the impact of our anti-doping effort. As we begin 2021, I want to send a message that anti-doping is a team effort, and make clear that everyone involved in Biathlon must be part of that anti-doping team if we are to foster, and maintain a clean, fair sport for all. You may be someone who tells us about an individual’s behaviour, or you may have concerns regarding a persons welfare. Any piece of information, no matter how big or small, could make all the difference to the healthy culture we are trying to foster in our sport.

 Alternatively, you may be somebody who feels that they are stuck in a doping trap; that person who, due to pressures, has starting taking a prohibited substance and now feels as though they have nowhere to turn. Regardless of the information you provide, we are here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to speak to you in absolute confidence – we can help you make biathlon a better sport for all. If you prefer, you can contact us anonymously, through our whistleblower portal, located on the  BIU website. We can and we will provide you with the support you need. 

 Throughout the remainder of the 2020 – 2021 season, we will provide you with more detailed information on how we will be protecting you and integrity of our sport, through our analysis of race results, work with WADA-accredited laboratories, intelligence collection and investigation work. In the meantime, keep in touch and I wish you the best of luck for a healthy, more prosperous 2021.

Yours, Greg McKenna

 Head of Biathlon Integrity Unit