Regarded as one of the most physically demanding races in the world, the Päijänteen Ympäriajo pitted competitors through three incredibly tough days, and nights, of racing. With the event starting and ending in Helsinki, riders covered almost 1,000km of terrain that included over 250km of special tests, two of which were run in the dark.
Due to the early spring and lack of ice, many riders felt that this year’s race was one of the toughest in recent times. Ploughing through mile after mile of snow, mud and deep ruts, competitors were tested to the limits of their capabilities.
For the second year in a row, Kantonen was the winner, fending off a tough challenge from Roni Nikander. Unable to add a third title to list of Päijänteen Ympäriajo victories, Marko Laaksonen completed the top three.
The most famous winner of the race is Mika Ahola, who won the race six times, in years 1993, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998 and 2000.
Results:
1. Oskari Kantonen 6:51:47.34;
2. Roni Nikander 02:37.94;
3. Marko Laaksonen 08:31.13;
4. Jari Mattila 10:13.09;
5. Lauri Pohjonen 10:14.69;
6. Janne Suominen 14:03.74;
7. Markus Michelsson 15:00.18;
8. Riku Nikander 15:42.26;
9. Miko Mellin 18:33.39;
10. Toni Peltonen 22:03.62…
13. Valtteri Salonen 32:32:00
Images: ©Jan Hovi / Xracing
