January 24, 2015 (Antholz, Italy) – A dramatic finish in the men’s 12.5km pursuit at Antholz saw Germany’s Simon Schempp triumph yet again in a battle to the line over Austria’s Simon Eder in second with Russia’s Evgeniy Garanichev in third as Norway’s Ole Einar Björndalen settled for fourth.

Schempp wins ©

The four all shot clean on the final standing session leaving together to contend for the final spots on the podium.  Björndalen was the only clean shooter overall as Schempp had two penalties and the others each one miss for the final showdown with Schempp the strongest sprinter in the fouresome as he lunged at the line for his third consecutive victory.

Four leaders at final standing © Nordic Focus

Canadian Brendan Green’s, 28, unprecedented streak of clean shooting, ended today as he suffered four penalties on his way to a respectable 18th place finish at 1:57.9 behind.

“I knew my clean shooting streak would have to come to an end eventually. It would have been amazing to keep it going for one more race, especially today, but it was great that it lasted so long and hopefully I can continue to have strong shooting throughout the season,” said Green.

Brendan Green (CAN) © Nordic Focus

“Today’s race was a tougher one for me.  I had anticipated that I would likely have to red line it to catch and then ski with (the leaders) on the first loop which I was able to do, but the pace absolutely crushed me,” said Green. “I knew the pace was one I wasn’t going to be able to handle. It was a great experience to be in contention for the podium for part of the race, and it was a learning opportunity for sure.  I’m happy to have had that opportunity and hopefully next time I can stay in contention for more of the race.”

The USA’s Lowell Baily moved up to 25th but fell back to 32nd after three missed targets in standing, eventually crossing the line in 31st place with 5 penalties at 2:49.5 behind. His teammate Tim Burke also suffered five missed target and moved up to eventually finish in 40th.

Final podium © Nordic Focus

“I’m happy that my skiing recovered from Thursday’s race, but I was definitely disappointed that I couldn’t put it together in the range,” Bailey said. “I’m looking forward to another chance in the relay tomorrow.”

Christian Gow, 21, of Calgary, skied to 46th in just his fourth World Cup with two penalties at 4:23.4 behind.

Full results here.