BORN: 1992 HEIGHT: 172cm / 5″7 FROM: Lohja, Finland SHOES: Saucony Time keeping: Garmin
I was born and raised in a small town called Lohja, Finland. I wasn't always a runner; my first passion was soccer. That phase lasted a few years, but it instilled in me a fighting spirit and built the stamina I would later rely on. It was a running coach, Seppo Leinonen, who recognized my potential and encouraged me to try my first ultra race.
Years have passed, and now, a decade later, after training systematically while also enjoying the journey, I've reached a level where I can realistically aim for world records. Yes, 2024 is the year — and beyond.
I’ve fine-tuned my abilities, and now I can confidently say, I’m ready.
Wait and see.
What really matters
is the journey, not just the destination.
My coach: Seppo Leinonen (Spartathlon 2023)
I completed my first Spartathlon in 2014. It was an exciting experience, almost like an adventure. To be honest, I barely made it through. There were countless moments when I was right on the edge, struggling to make the cut-off times. But somehow, I pushed through and finished.
Overall, I’ve started the Spartathlon six times, and only once did I have to withdraw. That year was particularly tough, as I had just come off the 24-hour World Championships. I wasn’t mentally prepared to give it my all, and it showed.
Times I have improved (lately)
2014: 35h:34min:37sec.
2015: 34h:02min:23sec.
2016: 32h:20min:59sec.
2021: 26h:27min:14sec.
2023: 23h:23min:03sec.
2024: 24h:25min:08sec. WINNER
A few years ago, I had the honor of becoming friends with the legend himself, Yiannis Kouros.
He is one of the friendliest runners I know. His legend precedes him, with over 100 world records to his name, and he is truly a pioneer of ultrarunning as we know it today.
Hanging out with Fotis Zisimopoulos, it’s clear that the saying is true — Greece is the birthplace of running. A true joy to be around, both as an athlete and a person.
Last December, this incredible athlete just "bombarded" our house! In my eyes, Camille Herron is the greatest female ultrarunner of all time. She recently broke the 6-day world record and, at the same event, shattered a total of 12 world records. Camille, along with Connor — her coach, husband, and mentor — embody the true power and determination of the human spirit.
My personal trainers — or rather, my mental coaches.
As a dog lover, there’s no story without these rescue dogs: Lilu (the white one) and Buga Buga (the Labrador). Both were abandoned and left in harm's way, but we were fortunate enough to save them. They bring me endless joy and happiness.
A big part of an athlete’s life is traveling... and more traveling.
Goofing around with my yoga friends at Yoga Shala, Gytheio.
My ride, currently in maintenance.
Life is for living
While much of my life is dedicated to sport (a big part, yes), I’ve been truly blessed to live life to the fullest. Traveling between my home country, Finland, and Greece is a gift in itself. And along the way, I’ve had the privilege of participating in incredible races and meeting amazing people who have enriched my journey.
Patrycja Bereznowska, aka Patti, hanging out before the race.
Photo session with Sorokin and race organizer Gilad Krauz (Israel). What a great time we had!
Carlo Capalbo, Chairman of the WA (World Athletics) Road Running Division.
At the starting line with Aleksandr Sorokin.
PHANTANE ATHLETICS CLUB, South Africa — home to one of the greatest distance coaches of all time, Mr. Mdu Khumalo.
Assisting with coaching at the Loutraki 24h, alongside Ioannis "John" Dimopoulos.
Independence Day ball, invited by the President of Finland.