In Finland, the world wife-carrying championship defies gravity and makes the world laugh.

Lost in the heart of Finland, the small village of Sonkajärvi hosts one of the world's most unusual sporting events every year: the World Wife Carrying Championship. Born from a 19th-century legend about the brigand Ronkainen, known for "abducting" women from neighboring villages, this competition has gone from local folklore to a true international phenomenon.

Today, couples from all over the world meet there to try the adventure, between a lighthearted spirit and a desire for performance.

The course is unforgiving. Over 253.5 meters, competitors traverse sand, grass, and asphalt before tackling two dry obstacles and a deep water pit. Falls, splashes, and the cheers of the crowd are all part of the spectacle.

While the atmosphere remains festive, the athletes train year-round. The goal is to master the fastest technique. The most famous is the "Estonian lift," where the woman is upside down with her legs locked around her partner's neck and shoulders.

The rules also have their own peculiarities. To participate, a woman must weigh at least 49 kg. Below that weight, ballast is added. And surprisingly, some couples reverse roles. Some women choose to carry their partners. Beyond the physical feat, the challenge demands camaraderie, trust, and a good dose of humor to overcome the obstacles without giving up.

This year, 60 couples representing 12 countries took part. And once again, experience prevailed. Taisto Miettinen, 61, secured his ninth world title with his wife, confirming that in Sonkajärvi, strength sometimes goes hand in hand with longevity.