Shooting star Niklas Hartweg shows a good race in Kontiolahti

Niklas Hartweg succeeds in a sensation at the Biathlon World Cup opener in Kontiolahti, Finland.

The Swiss biathlete, who lives in Lenzerheide, finished second in the individual competition. The Swedish sprint world champion Martin Ponsiluoma came in first with a lead of 37.2 seconds. The 22-year-old Hartweg completed the competition over 20 kilometres without any mistakes and hit all targets. It is the first time that Hartweg has finished in the top 10 at a Biathlon World Cup.

In addition to Hartweg, another Swiss biathlete, Sebastian Stalder, was convincing. The 24-year-old from the Zurich Oberland secured a strong 19th place.