Sporting in Åland

Would you like to try out an activity that is really different, one where it’s all about working together? A new curling centre is opening in Eckerö in Åland in spring/summer 2013. “It’s an excellent way for companies, groups of friends and school classes to build up a proper team spirit. And for professional curlers it’s an excellent training rink,” says Mari Wickström at Åland’s curling centre "Vianor curlingcenter".

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.

Craving for a race with pace and excitement? Then Lemland’s Go-kart track is well worth a visit. The charm of go-karting attracts companies, families, groups of friends and school class groups.

Paf Open makes the summer longer! The last week of August prolongs the summer when the international beach volleyball tournament Paf Open is yet again back in Mariehamn. Paf Open is the hottest beach event of the year and a part of the FIVB Beach Volleyball Swatch World Tour

During the 30 years of its history the Åland Marathon & ½ Marathon has been characterized by personal records, an exclusive medal and characteristic red Åland asphalt that is fast and easy to run on.

On 9 June 2012 the new Leklandet will be opening its doors at Käringsund, Eckerö. The large Eckeröhallen sports hall will be filled with enormous inflatable bouncy castles, adventure obstacle courses, slides, football games and other inflatable attractions on a theme of pirates. There are a total of 21 different attractions. Full of mischief for children, young people and adults who need a break from playing on the beach.

Ålandstravet harness racing is hitting the big time this summer. Both the Big Trot and the Midnight Trot are on the calendar. “This is going to be an extra fun harness racing summer,” says Kristiina Kurki-Suonio, head of operations at Ålandstravet.

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.