Forget marathons or triathlons, in Finland sporting events get an alternative makeover. With such events as mosquito swatting and wife carrying you’d be forgiven for thinking these championships were a bit of fun, but strangely enough the competitors take their sports very seriously.
Most events occur over the summer months throughout Finland, and people from all over the world each year flock to either compete or just take in the atmosphere of some of the no doubt weirdest events in the world.
If you fancy a different summer holiday this year then check out my favourite of the weird Finnish sporting events below.
Air Guitar World Championships
Probably the most famous of all Finnish events, the air guitar championships attract nearly 10,000 people each year, with many coming from the spiritual home of rock – the USA. Each competitor performs a routine af around 1 minute to the crowd, and they are judged on their creativity, flair and ability to rock the crowd. Expect tight lycra, lots of Metalica and some of the funniest stage names you’ll have ever heard.
Wife Carrying World Championships
Pulling unanimate objects like trucks or planes is so 10 years ago, nowadays it’s all about husbands carrying their wives! Each year in July the small town of Sonkajarvi comes alive with spectators to watch competing couples make their way through the 250 metre track – through obstacles like water pools, hurdles and mud. Some couples do compete seriously, although most are here for the laughs, so expect some fabulous costumes and loads of fun.
Mobile Phone Throwing World Championships
Contrary to popular opinion, this event wasn’t actually created by Naomi Campbell or Russell Crowe, but the Finns themselves – with Finland being the native land of Nokia, the abundance of unused phones is to thank for this even which started back in 2000. Serious competitors however bring their own devices, but if you’re not partial to hurtling your iPhone at great speeds then you will be provided with one of the event phones. Great for anyone needing a relaxtion break away from technology!
Photo Credits – Thanks to quantummusicfestival (Attribution License)
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