Who are we
Denmark Open Air is Denmark’s largest international air rifle and air pistol competition. The event takes place at Vildbjerg Sports- og Kulturcenter, where the sports arena provides the perfect setting for a world-class competition.
The competition is held every year in week 7, from Wednesday to Saturday. Wednesday is dedicated to the Mixed Team competition.
Denmark Open Air was first held in 2019. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the competition was paused in 2021 and 2022. Since 2023, we have been back on track and continue to grow each year.
The event is organized and hosted by Talentcenter Vest and is run entirely by volunteers. Parents of our shooters, members from other shooting clubs, and people from the local community all contribute their time and effort. They are the backbone of Denmark Open Air, and without them, the competition would not be possible. All volunteers wear Denmark Open Air shirts, making them easy to recognize during the event.
The team behind Denmark Open Air
Kim Mæng Ibsen: Chief coach in Talentcenter Vest. Day job: Owner of Ibsen Shooting and co-owner of Sunds Tømrer og Byggefirma A/S.
Kim has a large knowledge about shooting and is responsible for the team who build the shooting range, all the technical aspects and whatever needs to be build, invented or thought of. Due to his huge network in shooting sport and in the local community, he can make everything happen.
During the competition you can find Kim in the Final Hall as chief range officer commanding the finals
René Kristiansen: Coach in Talentcenter Vest. Day job: Application Design Engineer at Kyocera Unimerco.
René is a former member of two Danish national teams for ISSF and CISM shooting. An experienced shooter who has participated in many competitions and set both national and international records.
As a national Jury, René is responsible for checking up on all changes in the rulebook and making sur we have the right equipment for the control and competition and final format. Must of time is working behind the scenes. He is the designer of the medals, marketing material. Previously he was the only speaker in the final hall, now he is responsible for the speaker’s team, but when is needed back as speaker.
Rebecca Alexis: Mom to a previous athlete in Talentcenter Vest. Day job: Chief strategy and transformation manager at Grundfos.
Rebecca is chairman of the organizing committee and oversees the overall organization of the event including invitations, registrations, website management, timetables, startlists, and volunteer coordination.
During the competition, she manages the competition office and ensures that everything runs according to plan. You can find her in the competition office during all competition days.
Why we started Denmark Open Air:
The main purpose with Denmark Open Air was to generate financial support for Talentcenter Vest, we also wanted to create an opportunity for our shooters at the talent center to participate in a big international competition at Danish ground, organized according to ISSF international standards, giving them the opportunity to compete with shooters from all over the world.
Our ambition is clear: To be the biggest, best and most cozy competition in Denmark.
What is Talentcenter Vest:
Talentcenter Vest is part of the Danish Shooting Union’s official talent program. It provides a structured training environment for shooters who aim to elevate their performance and pursue ambitious goals.
We develop both future international elite shooters and athletes striving for higher national levels. Our focus is on technical skills, mental strength, physical well-being, and independent training all why we create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Among our athletes is Rikke Mæng Ibsen, a highly ranked international shooter, along with several current and former national team members.
We create a focused, structured, and supportive training environment where athletes can develop according to their individual ambitions. Admission to Talentcenter Vest requires meeting specific performance and commitment criteria.
Facts & Highlights
International athletes use Denmark Open Air as preparation for major championships such as the European Championships, World Championships, World Cups, and the Olympic Games.
Training lanes can be rented on Monday and Tuesday, allowing athletes to enjoy a full week of shooting in Denmark.
Several national teams participate each year.
In 2026, 226 shooters from 13 different nationalities registered for the competition.
Venue & Accommodation
The competition takes place at Vildbjerg Sports- og Kulturcenter, offering optimal facilities for our competition.
Participants can book accommodation directly at the venue or at the nearby Hotel Vildbjerg, ensuring convenient access to the arena.
The venue also offers comfortable lounge areas where athletes, coaches, and families can relax and enjoy meals together.
NETWORK – Joined dinner:
To strengthen the international community, we host a joint dinner on Friday evening.
This event provides a great opportunity for shooters, coaches, families, and volunteers to connect, network, and enjoy a relaxed evening together outside the competition arena.