International Spectators Brave Arctic Conditions for Traditional Finnish Reindeer Racing
Hundreds of spectators from across Europe defied sub-zero temperatures this past weekend to attend the Salla Reindeer Cup, a decades-old traditional racing event held in the remote Finnish town of Salla. Approximately 1,000 people gathered near the Russian border, some 264 kilometres northeast of Oulu, to watch reindeer gallop across snow-covered tracks while handlers on skis were pulled behind in a thrilling display of speed and skill.
A Cultural Tradition with Deep Roots
The event attracted an international crowd, with attendees travelling from Finland, Italy, Norway, Germany, and France, highlighting the widespread appeal of this unique Arctic sport. Reindeer husbandry holds significant cultural importance across Scandinavia, particularly for the Indigenous Sami people of the far north, with traditions spanning many generations.
"Salla has a long history in reindeer racing — it's been going on here since the 1950s," explained Lasse Aatsinki, head of the Salla Reindeer Cup. "Back then, men spent winters in the forest without snowmobiles. In late winter, the reindeer were in peak condition, so they began racing them as a natural extension of their work."
The Science of Reindeer Racing
Today, reindeer racing has evolved into an organised and regulated competition featuring specially trained male reindeer. The premiere event was the so-called hot series, where reindeer must qualify by completing a kilometre-long track in 1 minute and 19 seconds or less. Only the fastest animals earn the right to compete in this elite race.
"It's a science," Aatsinki noted. "A lot depends on the reindeer's character — it must tolerate crowds, other reindeer, noise, and movement. Every owner has their own training methods and secrets, usually kept under their fur hats."
Festive Atmosphere and Culinary Delights
During the races, crowds enthusiastically cheered their favourites with traditional Finnish shouts of "hyvä, hyvä" (good, good) and "mene, mene" (go, go) as the reindeer sprinted down the final stretch. Between events, spectators warmed themselves with reindeer soup and kampanisu, a traditional local pastry specialty from Salla, adding to the festive community atmosphere.
Victory for an Unlikely Champion
The competition culminated on Sunday with final rounds, where a reindeer named Pompom emerged victorious. "Pompom is exceptionally fast and smart, and you rarely find one like that," said Hannu Krupula, the winning animal's owner. "If there's any weakness, it's that it's not very good-looking — which can be misleading. When you look at that reindeer, you might quickly think it's poorly fed, but it eats well. It's a rare individual."
Following the race, Pompom and all participating reindeer received their well-deserved reward: lichen, their favourite treat. This traditional conclusion underscores the deep connection between the animals and their handlers, preserving a cultural practice that continues to draw international attention despite the challenging Arctic environment.
