More than 20 pairs participated in a kickboxing competition in Kannonkoski – including ex-rally cyclist Mikko Hirvonen

For the first time, a kick rally was organised in Kannonkoski. The aim is to develop a series of scooter races with the aim of becoming a world championship event.

For the first time ever, a scooter rally was held in Kannonkoski on Saturday. The idea for the kick rally was born among tourism entrepreneurs in the area. The aim was to create events outside the summer tourist season.

Open to all, the playful competition consisted of special tests of different dimensions, which were carried out in pairs. A total of 21 pairs took part.

The competition came about quickly, as preparations for it only started last month.

In addition to the competitors, there were also plenty of people in the stands.

– I think this increases community spirit. That was one of the central goals of the event, Ville Virtanen sums up.

Kasper and Mikko Hirvonen in Kannonkoski Potkurial. — Kasper and Mikko Hirvonen told us that training for next year’s Kickstarter Rally will start immediately.

Ex-cyclist took part in a race with his son

– It was a great race and dad pedaled well, says Kasper Hirvonen.

Mikko Hirvonen was satisfied with the event.

– It was really nice. It’s great that so many people showed up. Relaxed and fun, that’s the most important thing here.

Kicksledder Markku Levänen in his competition outfit. — Markku Levänen’s race suit and skeleton have been involved in many of them. They have also had some decorations detached from them along the way.

Pekka Salmi and Mirja Salo in Kannonkoski's Potkurial. — Mirja Salo and Pekka Salmi at the second stage of the Kickstarter Rally.

However, the Karstula duo had a disagreement during the race about the map reader’s notes.

– The notes were wrong. He had Christmas carol sheet music and he just sang: \”Hush, hush,\” says Salmi.

A pair of competitors on the ice in the Kannonkoski Potkurial. — The race was held in freezing weather.

The Kannonkoski Potkuriralli was a pilot event. The goal of the organizers is to develop a kicksledding competition series to be implemented in the area, for which a World Championship rank is applied for.