July 20, 2021

The annual Arctic Challenge – a playful-minded but extremely tough obstacle course organized by Levi Wellness Club – was very warmly received this year on the 17th of July. The course was faced by hundreds of brave contestants who had come from all over Finland, including employees from the Kittilä mine. Laboratory technician Päivi Ylitalo was one of Agnico Eagle Finland’s contestants at the race, and she commented: ”It was brilliant yet again!” 

The adjacent photo of Päivi was captured by Neil Walton.

Not just any mountain jog 

Even though there is no score or time keeping in Arctic Challenge, the physical and mental strength toll it takes on each and every contestant is immense. The unique terrain and nature at Levi provide not only an impressive but also a convenient setting for this kind of sport event, where the idea is to offer contestants the chance to challenge themselves in never before experienced ways.  

You can read more on the Arctic Challenge philosophy from the event’s webpage. 

 One part of supporting our community 

Levi Wellness Club and AEF have been working together for many years by providing employees with gym memberships and coaching, for example. Collaborating with this year’s Arctic Challenge was a natural way for us to show our support towards our community according to Agnico Eagle Finland’s general manager Tommi Kankkunen. “Helping local businesses strengthen their operations is very important to us. In addition, we want to develop the health and well-being of our staff by giving them opportunities to attend these kinds of events where one’s physical and mental strength are boosted,” he says. 

 Last year’s Arctic Challenge had to be postponed due to Covid-19, and the refreshing recreational value of the event was more than welcome this summer. Thank you to Levi Wellness Club for the great event! 

Text: Eerika Saarijärvi