The Vuokatti Aateli Race kicked off with an exciting first day of competition. Iivo Niskanen and Krista Pärmäkoski emerged as the winners in the men’s and women’s prologue events, respectively.

Pärmäkoski showcased her exceptional skiing prowess in the women’s prologue, securing an impressive lead with a blistering time. Emmi Lämsä claimed the second spot, a mere 18.2 seconds behind Pärmäkoski. Vilma Ryytty clinched the third position, 20.4 seconds adrift from the leader.

Reflecting on her performance, Pärmäkoski commented on the challenging conditions: 

“The scorching heat posed quite a challenge, but I managed to handle it well. However, I’m pleasantly surprised by the outcome, despite encountering a minor setback in the middle,” says the athlete to the Finnish Ski Association.

Meanwhile, Iivo Niskanen established his dominance in the men’s prologue, blazing through the course and winning the stage. Niko Husu secured the second spot, finishing a mere 1.5 seconds behind Niskanen, while Arsi Ruuska displayed a commendable performance, claiming the third position, 11.3 seconds off the pace.

Niskanen commented on his race strategy to the Finnish Ski Association: 

“The pace was relentless today. When I was in fourth place, I knew I had to step up my game. I hoped that I could also wear down the rest of the group ahead by doing so. Although my start might not have been ideal, I managed to make up ground, and tomorrow I can try again.”

The competition will intensify on Wednesday as the women’s and men’s events continue with cross-country running and roller skiing. The combined time from Tuesday’s roller skiing and Wednesday morning’s cross-country run will determine the starting order and intervals for the freestyle roller skiing event.

Results – Vuokatti Aateli Race (Prologue)

Women

1. Krista Pärmäkoski
2. Emmi Lämsä, +18.2 seconds
3. Vilma Ryytty, +20.4 seconds

Men

1. Iivo Niskanen
2. Niko Husu, +1.5 seconds
3. Arsi Ruuska, +11.3 seconds

Are you interested in traditional cross-country skiing? Click here and read more.