6-year old Joonatan Hirn has navigated the kids’ orienteering route at least 30 times.
The most enthusiastic junior runner at Kangasala-Jukola is without a doubt 6-year old Joonatan Hirn from Sipoo. By 11 am on Saturday he had completed the Kids World orienteering route 27 times.
Why all the enthusiasm, Joonatan?
– Well, this is a good place to practise, comments Joonatan before rushing off to round no. 28.
The route is timed. Joonatan’s record this morning is 47 seconds.
– I have tried orienteering before in Rovaniemi and Järvenpää. Here the most challenging control is the fourth one. I fell and nearly tripped there.
The bouncy castle is a big draw
The Kids World is organised by the Kangasala MLL (Mannerheim League for Child Welfare) and boy scouts association Sahalahden Sinisudet.
– The Särkäniemi Zones indoor park bouncy castle has been very popular. In addition we have hobby horses, an obstacle course, ball games and for our youngest guests, a diaper station and microwave for warming food, says Joona Malmi, head of Kids World and managers Marketta Nieminen and Gitte Mustonen.
The Kids World is open 10-21 on Saturday and 9-12 on Sunday.
– The diaper station and microwave are always available, we have someone here all the time to supervise.
Scouts’ tent site
Sahalahden Sinisusi scout association has put up a magnificent tent site at the back of the Kids World.
– There are several fun activities that everyone can come and participate in, Satu Kangas comments.
The daughters of an orienteering family, Melissa and Matilda Hellstén tried their hand at building a pyramid. Mother Riia Leppäaho watched by while waiting for the start of the Venla relay.
– I am competing in the Rakina2-team, and Juha Hellstén, father of the children, competes in the Jukola relay MS Parma4 -team.
In addition to all the activities, the Kids World includes a dedicated resting area.