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Why did you decide to register to this race?

We like to try out different kinds of ultra-distance endurance events. This event is something new and together with memories from the last summer when exploring Vätsäri wilderness area by a kayak we decided this must be one of the two main events for the summer of 2020. Another event will be Gauja XXL kayaking ultra. Something for the upper body and something for the legs to remain balance.

What kind of trip you expect LWC to be?

It’s going to be wonderful trip because the nature in Vätsäri is so amazing. The fact that you are forced to spend almost a week without a mobile phone and any other responsibilities than walking/running, sleeping and eating is just awesome! The trip itself might be physically challenging but it’s all about adjusting pace and finding a balance between movement and recovery. It’s like a long hike in good old days when you didn’t have GPS but with more optimized backpack weight and longer daily mileage.

Tell something about your team. Whats does the name stand for?

We are true believers of sugar power. Our team runs with candy that’s why the name Candy Kings. Other than that long endurance races as a team is one form of dating for us. Long distance races are just perfect excuse to get somewhere together without kids.

What is the longest distance you have traveled in terrain (by foot) in 24 hours?

We have done few 100 km and 24 h events so it must be more than 100 km because our route planning is far from optimized and thanks to Paavo and his ideas for shortcuts we usually get decent number of extra miles.

What’s your goal in LWC?

We call this a holiday event, so our goal is to finish this race mentally rested but physically exhausted. Finishing full distance may not be achievable but to see what you can get out of an old body during five days will be very interesting.

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Irina Köntti and Paavo Juntunen