Imatra First Snow Ski Track offers both speed and challenge

Biathlete Venla Lehtonen, representing Imatran Urheilijat, enjoys training on Imatra’s First Snow Track whenever she’s in town,  it’s one of her absolute favorites! In an interview, Venla shared her top 5 spots along the track:

1. Valmentajakukkula (The biggest climb of the track)
The biggest climb on the track is both versatile and challenging. It can be approached from three different directions, and its varying gradients require a range of techniques. After the climb, you’re rewarded with a long, fast downhill.

2. The new section curving right before the stadium
This stretch features a fast and technically demanding descent that ends in a sharp turn and a climb up to the stadium and shooting range. There’s no recovery section before the range, making it especially challenging for biathletes.

3. The straight section by the Ice Rink
This section, branching off to the right from the stadium, is technically easier compared to the biggest climb side, but offers plenty of speed!

4. Departure and return from the stadium
As you head out from the stadium, it feels like the trail pulls you into the peaceful forest. On return, the tunnel opens up to a breathtaking view of the entire stadium.

5. The approach to the shooting range
As a biathlete, one of her favorite parts is the approach to the shooting range, the straight sections just before the range. It’s also a great flat segment for anyone on an otherwise speedy course.