Tiril Eckhoff of Norway took the lead in the women's IBU World Cup after triumphing in Ruhpolding ©Getty Images

Tiril Eckhoff of Norway took the lead in the women's International Biathlon Union (IBU) World Cup, after triumphing in Ruhpolding in Germany.

The 29-year-old dominated the 7.5 kilometre sprint, crossing the line in 18min 55.5secs. 

Hanna Oeberg of Sweden was 29.7 seconds back to claim silver, while Dorothea Wierer of Italy was the bronze medallist after finishing 36.8 seconds off the mark. 

Eckhoff's victory was enough to see her take the World Cup leader's yellow bib off Wierer.

She now leads the standings with 441 points, while Wierer is on 438 and Julia Simon of France sits on 321. 

Dorothea Wierer of Italy moved down to second in the women's IBU World Cup standings ©Getty Images
Dorothea Wierer of Italy moved down to second in the women's IBU World Cup standings ©Getty Images

"It was a special day for me, because it was a perfect race.

"I tried my best to make a big, big gap for everyone, so they would be intimidated. 

"So I am very happy."

Competition continues tomorrow with the men's 10km sprint event.