Kazakhstan's Yerbol Khamitov secures Crystal Globe at IBU Para Biathlon World Cup

27-year-old native of the North Kazakhstan region secured the Crystal Globe, becoming the first-ever Kazakhstani athlete to win the Total Score.

“It's like a dream... Once, we could only dream of the Crystal Globe. We worked and believed, despite all the difficulties and trials. I am proud to have written my name in the history of Kazakhstani sports, becoming the world’s first champion in parabiathlon and the Crystal Globe winner. I am thankful to my team, family and friends for their support! It was an incredible season, but there are new goals ahead. Alhamdulillah for everything!” he posted on Instagram. 

The victory in the World Cup overall standings is a rare and outstanding achievement for winter sports in Kazakhstan. The last time, the Big Crystal Globe was brought to Kazakhstan by skier Vladimir Smirnov in 1994. Since then, Kazakhstani athletes have won medals in individual disciplines, but the main trophy remained unattainable, says the Ministry of Tourism and Sport.

Earlier, on March 8, Yerbol Khamitov, claimed gold in the Sitting Men 7.5 km Sprint at the IBU Para Biathlon World Cup.