Finnish men still best in the world at carrying wives

After taking things one step further than lifting his partner over the threshold on their wedding day, a Finnish man has proven himself the best in the world at wife carrying for the second year running. This year's world wife carrying championships in Sonkajarvi, northern Savo, saw Taisto Miettinen heave his pint-sized bride Kristiina Haapanen over the finish line to victory once again.

The dedicated duo was a clear five seconds ahead of the competition, Estonian couple Alar Voogle and Kristi Viltropi. Southwest Finland couple ILpo Haalosto and Satu Jurinen also made their country proud by clinching third place in the demanding discipline.

Finland also scooped second in the team event with wife-carrying collective Sonkaru of Sonkajarvi, which was narrowly beaten by Konkurendidi, the Estonia team. The Irish team was forced to settle for third place in the group event which saw 44 pairs of speedy spouses race for victory.

The prestigious titles were fought over by couples from the USA, Australia, Estonia, Canada, Finland, Ireland, Poland and Germany, all of who competed to be first in line for the unique distinctions. Media outlets from six countries recorded the dramatic events, while 4,000 spectators lined the streets to cheer on their favourites. The event is in its 15th year and has been won by Estonia 11 times, reports YLE.

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Source: IceNews, Daily news from Iceland