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Finnish Duo Win UK Wife Carrying Race With Course Record

The fastest British pair qualified to represent the UK at July’s world championships in Finland, with organizers contributing £250 toward their trip.

Overview

  • Run on Sunday in Dorking, Surrey, the 380‑metre course over the Nower featured hay-bale obstacles and a spectator splash zone with buckets and water pistols.
  • Teemu Touvinen and Jatta Leinonen of Finland won in a reported record 1:45.5, collecting the traditional prize of a barrel of local ale.
  • Edward Nash and Kathryn Knight finished second in 1:49.0 and will represent the UK at the World Wife Carrying Championships in Finland in July, with £250 in travel support from the organizers.
  • Previous two-time UK winners Stuart Johnson and Hattie Cronin placed third in 1:50.1, according to the race director.
  • Race rules allow adults to carry partners who are at least 50kg—or wear added weight if lighter—and competitors often use the Estonian hold; participants need not be married, and fancy dress is encouraged.