The rockface with its tall fir trees, standing next to the start area, creates an impressive contrast to the courfully dressed orienteerers waiting for the start signal. The rows are straight, and you can feel the deep concentration and almost smell the adrenaline.

Just a moment ago the men were warming up here and there, without any direction. Now they only have one direction on their minds – to the first contol point. The headlamps are turned on just before the start shot at 11 pm.

When 1628 men, a few brave women as well, rush towards the Savonian mountains, the sun is already setting below the horizon and the overflight of a Hornet doesn’t seem so important. The top teams in the lead hardly pay attention to the cheering crowds, but the last runners leave the the start area with a smiling laid-back attitude.

This is where the Jukola night begins.

 

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