Reindeer Championships – the Crown of the Season

The Reindeer Herders’ Association was responsible for organising the Reindeer Championships until 2015. Since 2016 the competitions have been organised by the Finnish Reindeer Competitors’ Association / Suomen Porokilpalijat ry (Facebook). To access the Championship competition, reindeer have to be amongst the 24 best reindeer after the Reindeer CUP-preliminary contests.

In addition to the Reindeer Championship –competition, there are also three other series: General, Hot and Sprint. There is also a Sprint competition for young participants, and finally competitions on lasso throwing and a playful challenge for groups of drivers – all part of the Championships weekend.

The Champion Reindeer

2020 Reindeer Championship cancelled due to Covid-19

2019 Annin Suivakko / Paistunturi herding cooperative, owners Vuolab Juha ja Portimo Anni, driver Marko Tervaniemi

2018 Tulimus / Sallivaara reindeer herding cooperative, owner Rauni Näkkäläjärvi, driver Seija Matero

2017 Pikalaaki / Pintamo reindeer herding cooperative, owner Taneli Paso, driver Hanna Mikkola.

2016 Pikalaaki / Pintamo reindeer herding cooperative, owner Taneli Paso, driver Hanna Mikkola.

2015 Ote / Kiiminki-Kollaja reindeer herding cooperative, owner  Jouni Kyrönniemi, drivers Janne Alatalo and Eero Päkkilä.

2014 Urmas / Sattasniemi reindeer herding cooperative, owner Jorma Kuukasjärvi, driver Hanna Mikkola.

2013 Annintähti / Kaldoaivi reindeer herding cooperative, owner Anni Länsman, driver Uula Petteri Somby.

2012 Annintähti / Kaldoaivi reindeer herding cooperative, owner Anni Länsman, driver Uula Petteri Somby.

2011 Dat lea / Paistunturi reindeer herding cooperative, owner Ari Niittyvuopio, driver Uula Petteri Somby.

2010 Dat lea / Paistunturi reindeer herding cooperative, owner Ari Niittyvuopio, driver Uula Petteri Somby.