You are organizing NUTS Pallas on the 24th - 26th of July 2015. Can you tell us where your event is located?
NUTS Pallas is organized in the Ylläs-Pallas National Park on the hiking trails of the Ylläs-Pallas fell in the Finnish Lapland. The race centre is located in the village of Hetta in Enontekiö. The start location in Äkäslompolo is Visitor Centre Kellokas and in Pallas the Pallastunturi Visitor Centre.
Are there different distances in your event?
The distances are 125 km from Ylläs to Hetta and 55 km from Pallas to Hetta. In 2015 there will be a new distance of 23 km.
Tell us something about the history of your event. Why was it created in the first place and how has it changed over the years?
The course of the event follows one Finland’s most popular hiking trails, one that has seen both runners and hikers throughout the years. For example, in 1984 the Finnish cross country skier Juha Mieto ran from Hetta to Pallas in 4 hours and 50 minutes. In the summer of 2013 we arranged a test run with seven brave enthusiasts. The experience was amazing, so we decided to organize the event in 2014 with the addition of the 125 km course and a permission from the Finnish Forest and Park Service to include 300 participants.
Describe your route a bit. How’s the scenery? Is the route beginner friendly? Can runners expect PB’s?
The races are run on a stunning hiking trail. The 55 km course runs mostly on open fells, so with the right weather the views are absolutely breathtaking. The 125 km course climbs to the top of nine fells, adding up to about 3800 metres of ascent. The time limit for the 55 km course is a generous 10 hours, and the runners will reach the finish around midnight. The 125 km time limit is 30 hours, and the participants start the journey on Friday at midnight. Running through the nightless night is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience. Refreshment stations will be set at approximately every 20 km.
What else should runners do in the city after/before the race? Any suggestions to newcomers?
It is definitely worth while to get to know the beautiful nature of Lapland. Especially the National Parks are a must.
How would you describe your event to people who haven’t yet participated in it? What makes your event unique?
The courses follow an amazing hiking trail in one of Finland’s most gorgeous and unique Natural Parks.
