Salla Reindeer Race
Held in northern Finnish Lapland near the Russian border, the Salla Reindeer Cup has been a winter fixture since the 1950s. What started as an informal end-of-season tradition among local herders, who raced their animals when the reindeer were at peak condition and snowmobiles hadn't yet taken over the forest, has grown into a regulated competition drawing spectators from across Europe.
Trained reindeer sprint down a kilometer-long track, pulling their handlers behind them on skis, with the fastest animal taking the win. Between races, crowds warm up with reindeer soup and local pastries.
Shot for the Associated Press.
Syndicated by The Washington Post, ABC News and others.
Trained reindeer sprint down a kilometer-long track, pulling their handlers behind them on skis, with the fastest animal taking the win. Between races, crowds warm up with reindeer soup and local pastries.
Shot for the Associated Press.
Syndicated by The Washington Post, ABC News and others.
