Sisters in Sport: The Journey of Jasmin and Jessica Kähärä

Jasmin and Jessica Kähärä, two sisters with a wealth of athletic experience, grew up in an environment rich with sports. Their early years were filled with various activities such as football, skiing, athletics, and volleyball, laying the groundwork for their successful sporting careers. While both have emerged as elite athletes, they have made their mark in different arenas: Jasmin has thrived in competitive skiing, whereas Jessica has found her niche in athletics, specializing in long jump and triple jump.

Jasmin proudly represented Finland in cross-country skiing at the Beijing Winter Olympics, competing in the sprint event. In contrast, Jessica made a significant leap into the world of athletics, making her senior debut at the European Championships in Rome, where she showcased her talent in the long jump and triple jump. The dynamic mix of rivalry and support between the sisters has fueled their drive to reach new heights in their sports.

In 2023, Jasmin clinched a gold medal at the U23 World Championships in Whistler, Canada, marking a pinnacle in her sprint skiing career. Jessica, meanwhile, has a strong collection of medals from youth competitions, including a silver in high jump and a bronze in triple jump at the European U18 Championships in Hungary, as well as another bronze at the U23 European Championships in Espoo.

Inspired by their mother, Catarina Svenlin, a former top volleyball player for Finland’s national team, Jasmin and Jessica developed a rich, diverse athletic foundation from an early age. Their active childhood allowed them to experiment with various sports before committing to their respective paths.

Jasmin’s intense dedication led her to focus solely on skiing, currently training with Finland’s national team in Vuokatti. On the other hand, Jessica has faced significant challenges due to injuries but remains determined to excel in both long jump and triple jump as she aims for international success.

Despite choosing different sports, the Kähärä sisters continue to be each other’s biggest supporters, sharing in the joy of each other’s achievements and celebrating their journeys together.