THE SUN RUN 2021: DAY 3 JOURNAL FROM ROVANIEMI & AAVASAKSA

The morning session begins with form drills to develop speed and power. The workout is is hosted by YMR Track Club's founder Peter Häggström Lindecrantz, who competed in the long jump at the 2000 Summer Olympics. He works with the group to improve their running technique and body positioning.
Löpning, Specialprojekt

KEEP THE PACE HONEST

A second morning session takes place in Rovaniemi city center that sees Mustafa “Musse” Mohamed lead a group through 10 x 1k with 30 seconds rest. The Swedish marathon record holder is paced by the Finnish 50k national record holder, Ossi Peltoniemi. Others from camp join for the first half of each interval and help to keep the pace honest. After they bask in the gained fitness knowing despite differing nationalities running brings us together.

RACE POSTER 

Karhu and YMR Track Club used a long lost race poster from 1983 as the inspiration for the Sun Run. The original route ran from Sweden into Finland over the Tornio River and many top athletes from both nations came to compete for top level prizes.

CROSSING THE BORDER 

As a symbol of respect, the group brings back the spirit of the original event, but this time in the opposite direction. Starting at Keisarinmaja (Imperial Lodge) atop the Aavasaksa scenic path, the runners descend the mountain and make their way to the border of Finland and Sweden. The display of camaraderie and joy is in full display as runners cross the bridge.