Forty Teams Compete in the Central Ostrobothnia Provincial Relay on Epiphany - Promising "Exceptionally Exciting" Race
Originally published in Yle on January 03, 2025
The Central Ostrobothnia Provincial Relay will be held on Epiphany in Reisjärvi, featuring 40 teams. According to Reijo Alakoski, the chairman of the organizing committee, there is ample snow on the competition grounds and the ski tracks are in good condition. Moreover, the weather forecast indicates a cold day with temperatures around minus ten degrees Celsius.
Organizers expect around 2,000 spectators to attend, with assistance from approximately 150 volunteers during the competition.
In addition, a joint provincial relay from South Ostrobothnia and Ostrobothnia will also take place on Epiphany in Kauhajoki.
The last time the provincial relay was hosted in Reisjärvi was in 2005, where 45 teams participated. The continued popularity of the event is attributed to a strong turnout of skiers from the bilingual region and the enthusiastic participation from various municipalities in both organization and team representation. Alakoski predicts this year’s competition will be particularly thrilling as there are no clear favorites for victory, with strong teams like Haapajärvi and last year’s winner, Kalajoki, competing. Furthermore, most of the top skiers in the region are expected to participate.
