The Tiera Taivalkoski–Syöte Challenger returns for its third edition on Saturday, July 5, 2026, in Taivalkoski, Finland, this year adding Finnish Championship status to the Ski Classics Challengers event.
The 40km classic roller skiing event runs from the Tiera hotel in Taivalkoski to the summit of Syöte, covering one of the most demanding road sections in Finland. The course tests skiers’ endurance over a route that climbs to the top of Syöte.
The Finnish Ski Association has granted the event Finnish Championship status in long-distance roller skiing, a significant step for the race. Organizing committee chairman Matti Tyni welcomed the decision:
“It is wonderful to be hosting a competition at Finnish Championship level as well. In addition to the adult categories, we will be organizing separate Finnish Championship classes for veterans and juniors.”
Tyni also highlighted the opportunity the event creates for younger athletes: “For the juniors, the event also offers an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the terrain for the upcoming winter’s junior Finnish Championships.”
The competition weekend runs alongside the Taivalkoski Trail Run, held on July 4, creating a summer sports weekend in Taivalkoski that coincides with the traditional Päätalo Week.
More information about the event can be found HERE
Tiera Taivalkoski–Syöte Challenger – Facts
- Date: Sunday, July 5, 2026
- Location: Taivalkoski
- Country: Finland
- Distance: 40km
- Technique: Roller ski classic
- Website: Taivalkoski – Syöte
- Instagram: Taivalkoski – Syöte
- Facebook: Taivalkoski – Syöte
As the Tiera Taivalkoski–Syöte Challenger is a Ski Classics Challengers event, Pro Team registered athletes could collect points for the Ski Classics Champion and Youth competitions in their respective genders.
A list of Ski Classics Challengers events with confirmed dates can be found on the Ski Classics website. The list is updated continuously with new events.
Author: Leandro Lutz
Photo: Esko Koivula
