The IRONMAN Lahti 70.3 offers a captivating and demanding triathlon course, weaving through the scenic city of Lahti and the lush countryside of Southern Finland. Located in a region known for its beautiful landscapes and urban vibrancy, this course presents a diverse mix of natural vistas, urban energy, and varied terrain, creating a memorable event for global triathletes.
The triathlon starts with a swim in the tranquil Lake Vesijärvi, Finland’s fourth-largest lake. This single-loop swim provides a refreshing beginning to the race, complemented by stunning views of the countryside and the iconic Lahti cathedral.
Following the swim, athletes take on a one-loop bike segment that explores the rolling hills and dense forests of Southern Finland. The course offers a scenic journey through the picturesque countryside, with breathtaking views of the lake, forests, and the cityscape of Lahti. Starting and ending in Lahti, the route travels along the shores of Lake Vesijärvi and ascends to the Pulkkilanharju ridge, where participants can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding area. The descent back to Lahti passes through various neighborhoods, culminating at the Lahti Sports Centre.
The race concludes with a three-loop run that challenges participants with a mix of flat and hilly terrain. Starting and finishing in the city center of Lahti, the course passes by notable landmarks like the Lahti cathedral, the Lahti Marketplace, and the railway station. Extending beyond the city, it ventures into the countryside, offering mesmerizing views of the lake and forests. The course eventually returns to the heart of Lahti, where athletes cross the finish line in front of the Lahti Sibelius Hall, marking the end of an exhilarating and challenging journey.
In Lahti, Finland, the weather conditions during June typically feature:
Temperature: The average high temperature in June is around 19.4°C (67°F), and it rarely exceeds 20.1°C (68.2°F). Nighttime temperatures tend to be cooler, with averages around 9.4°C (49°F), and can sometimes drop to a minimum of 8.5°C (47.2°F). The temperature sees a subtle rise from May, with the average high reaching 18.9°C and the average low around 9.3°C.
Cloud Cover and Rainfall: June in Lahti is characterized by a constant cloud cover, with overcast or mostly cloudy skies about 47% of the time. The month also experiences a significant amount of rainfall, averaging 60 mm over 12 days. This suggests that while there are sunny intervals, overcast conditions are also common.
Humidity and Wind: The average humidity in June is around 73%, contributing to the mildly cool weather. The wind speed averages 10.2 mph, providing a gentle breeze throughout the month.
According to the Finnish Meteorological Institute, the average water temperature in Lake Vesijärvi in June is 16 °C (61 °F). The highest recorded temperature is 22 °C (72 °F) and the lowest recorded temperature is 10 °C (50 °F). The water temperature in Lake Vesijärvi is usually at its warmest in the middle of June.
