International Biathlon Union
Overview
The International Biathlon Union (IBU) is the international governing body for the sport of biathlon, a winter sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. The IBU is responsible for the promotion of the sport and the organization of international competitions, including the Biathlon World Championships and the biathlon events at the Winter Olympic Games.
History
The International Biathlon Union was founded on July 2, 1993, in London, England. The founding members were the national biathlon federations of Austria, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Poland, Russia, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States. The IBU was recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 1998.
Structure
The IBU is governed by a Congress, which is the supreme authority of the Union. The Congress is composed of representatives from all member federations and meets every two years. The Congress elects the Executive Board, which is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Union.
Competitions
The IBU organizes several international biathlon competitions. The most prestigious of these is the Biathlon World Championships, which are held annually. The IBU also organizes the Biathlon World Cup, a series of competitions held throughout the winter season. In addition, the IBU is responsible for the biathlon events at the Winter Olympic Games.
Anti-Doping Efforts
The IBU has a strong commitment to anti-doping and works closely with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to ensure the integrity of the sport. The Union has a comprehensive anti-doping program, which includes education, testing, and sanctions for violations.