Joni Mäki Secures Victory for Pohti Ski Team in Finland Cup Relay

Joni Mäki secured victory for his team in the men's relay of the Finland Cup.

The domestic ski season kicked off as Vuokatti hosted the Finland Cup sprints and relays on November 2-3. Yle covered the event in this article.

Highlights from the Finland Cup
- Vuokatti marks the first of six weekends for the Finland Cup.
- In Saturday's sprints, Jasmi Joensuu and Eero Rantala took the top spots.
- In the women's 3 x 6 km relay, Kainuun Hiihtoseura emerged victorious, while Pohti Ski Team claimed the men's 3 x 9 km relay title.
- Both sprints and relays were contested in freestyle technique.

Ristomatti Hakola from Jämin Jänteen struggled to match Joni Mäki's finishing speed, leading Jämi to a second-place finish in the relay.

"It’s quite frustrating. You can feel the heat when it doesn’t go as planned. It would have been nice to have a fast-paced competition. Maybe the strong headwind and snow caused everyone to hold back from leading," Hakola commented on the final stages.

Joni Mäki expressed relief at Hakola's momentum in the final round, which helped him warm up for his big finish.

Relay Highlights
Joni Mäki determined the outcome of the race with his overwhelming closing lap, leaving the competition behind. Ristomatti Hakola finished second for Jämin Jänteen, while Oskari Hökkä brought Proski Oulu in third. Pohti Ski Team's second team also excelled, finishing fifth overall.

Throughout the race, the front pack featured numerous teams, with notable moments such as crashes and strategic moves impacting the pace and positions. Pohti Ski Team's Niilo Moilanen led during the first exchange, showcasing strong determination.

Ultimately, Mäki's performance solidified Pohti Ski Team's dominance in this event, affirming their status in an exciting opening weekend for Finnish skiing.