First held in 1923, it is the longest continuously running sporting event in the country. During the centenary week, the future of winter sports will also be discussed.
The 100th anniversary of the Salpausselkä will take over Lahti at the end of March, about a month later than normal.
The race will take place from 24-26 March, which is also the final weekend of the Ski World Cup. In addition to the cross-country, cross-country and combined races, the women’s cross-country skiing race will also be held in Lahti.
Ticket sales opened on Tuesday. Last year, in the atmosphere of the koruna pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Games attracted around 35 000 spectators.
– In the jubilee year’s games, the goal must be higher than this, says Kolu.
The general secretary is not worried about the snow situation for the upcoming games. For example, last winter a record amount of snow was stored.
– If in some city this snow situation can be secured and the tracks made to World Cup level, then it can be implemented in Lahti.
Social responsibility weighs in on the festive season
One of the main themes of Salpausselkä’s 100th anniversary games is social responsibility. A conference on the future and sustainable development of winter sports will be held in Lahti on Thursday during the race week.
In addition to the development of the race weekend, Salpausselkä kisat aims towards year-round services.
*The story was edited at 3:20 p.m.: Added the comments of Secretary General Kolu.*