The Japanese Nerima OLC ladies team finished the Venla relay with happy faces and a strong result. They found the Finnish terrain to be completely different from what they are used to in Japan. The trees, vegetation, and overall forest structure posed a new challenge. Running in Finnish forests requires navigating many obstacles, making it much more demanding physically and mentally.
Fortunately, the team had already trained in one of the model areas before the race and quickly realized they needed to adjust their orienteering style. In particular, they learned that the compass is an essential tool in Finnish terrain.
Off the course, the team had already experienced a Finnish sauna—and they even have one in their accommodation in Mikkeli. After their successful race, they joked that they might spend the whole night relaxing in the sauna before continuing their trip, which next takes them to the World Cup in Sweden. Two team members are also preparing for the World Orienteering Championships in Kuopio, so this race served as excellent preparation.
The runners made very few mistakes and seemed to choose their routes well. All of them felt they performed better than expected. They unanimously agreed that they would love to return to Finland for another Jukola relay or other orienteering events. However, since such a trip takes a lot of effort, they were unsure when that might happen.
This Venla relay became their best memory from Finland so far. They also plan to stay up all night to cheer for the Jukola relay—another unforgettable experience to enjoy and remember for years to come. Actually, they revealed that all of them will also participate in the Jukola Relay. Hats off! Amazing spirit!
Thank you Hinako, Aoi, Kana and Airi and welcome again soon!
Text: Tuomo Vuorenpää
Picture: Mika Luukkonen