Sporting in Åland

Here is a selection of all the 100+ events you will find on in Åland in 2012. Don't miss out - put these Åland favourite events on your calendar now! How about a short and documentary film festival in Mariehamn or a party in the centre involving the world's best beach volleyball players?

The 44th Kanonloppet starts on Saturday 8 October 2011. The race got its name from the cannon that signals the start for the five hundred runners who are to run the whole way from Breidablick to Mariehamn. For those who prefer to walk, the Ålandsmarschen (Åland March) takes place on the same day, and there are also two races for children: the Lilla Kanonloppet and the Julleloppet.

Does the idea of a 120-km long cycle ride at high speed on smooth, red tarmac appeal to you? Have a go at cycle training and competitive cycling in Åland, then. There are plenty of excellent paths, and whizzing along in an archipelago environment is a remarkable experience. One recommendation is the Åland race on 6 August 2011. But there are a number of superb tours for both clubs and individuals who want to do their cycle training in an environment with a difference.

The Paf Open is a world-class sporting event combined with summer, sun, partying and a relaxed atmosphere. For one intense summer week in August, Mariehamn will be teeming with international beach volleyball players, fans of beach volleyball, visitors and many Ålanders. The festival area has everything you could possibly need to enjoy the long glorious days.

Experience the seasons in Åland's archipelago landscape from the best seat in the house. Both beginners and experienced riders sit safely on the back of an Icelandic horse. Midgårds Islandshäststall is one of several stables that provide trail riding.

The 30th Åland Åland Marathon & ½ Marathon are arranged on October 30th. During the past years the event has grown immensely, partly due to the beautiful and easy track, and partly due to the fact that more and more visitors are discovering the fascinating island world of Åland with its 27,000 inhabitants.

Thanks to excellent travel arrangements and many fine sport centres, hundreds of sport associations train and organise tournaments yearly in Åland.

Derek Coombes is a marketing executive from the Isle of Man in the Irish Sea. When he first came to Åland, it was love at first sight. That’s why he came back with his family. This is his story.