Changed by Rovaniemi – Arctic Rally 3/7

In our new “Changed by Rovaniemi”- blog series, we share unique stories from travelers of Rovaniemi. We asked, what makes Lapland so special to them, why they have fallen in love with Lapland, and what makes some of them return time after time. Have a look at the story of Marco from Germany, who visits the Arctic Rally -event in Rovaniemi every year.

“Lapland is the most beautiful place in the world,” states Marco Schroeder.

Marco’s special relationship with Rovaniemi started in 2009, when a Finnish Rally Team (Pekka Ruokonen & Pasi Haataja) started in a German Rally Series, “Gravelcup.” During the season Marco was taking care of some organizational arrangements for the team, and eventually became good friends with Pekka and Pasi. The Finnish team won the Gravelcup in 2009 and Marco was invited to Rovaniemi, Pasi’s hometown to the Arctic Rally event in 2010.

“We were so happy about the invitation and immediately started the preparations. Our Finnish friends made a house at RovaMotelli and the flights were booked quickly. We bought the warmest things we could find, and the adventure was about to begin.”

Arriving at Rovaniemi in January 2010, Marco was surprised by the huge amount of snow – as well as Mitsubishi Lancer EVO 9, which his friends has brought for them to the airport.

“We had an overwhelming holiday, had crazy party with Kimi Räikkönen at the Doris Night Club, and met many great people including Finnish rally legends such as Tommi Mäkinen and Juha Kankkunen. We were also very enthusiastic about visiting Santa Claus and it became clear to us relatively quickly, that it was not the last trip to Rovaniemi.”

After the first trip of 2010, Marco has visited Rovaniemi every year in January, and has seen and learned a lot from Lapland over the years. He has also visited Santa Claus every year.

Marco has great memories from Rovaniemi: admiring the view from Ounasvaara, visiting Ranua Wildlife Park, joining an extensive snowmobile safari, receiving a driving license for reindeer sleigh as well as enjoying evenings by a campfire, grilling makkara. In Rovaniemi, Marco has fallen in love especially with the nature, northern lights, huskies, snow, friendly people, and the Finnish cuisine.

“Once the pandemic is over, I’m sure to return to Rovaniemi again in January 2021.”

Stay tuned for more “Changed by Rovaniemi”- blog series, where we share unique stories from true travelers of Rovaniemi. What will change you?

Missed the previous part of the blog series? Read it here: Childhood dream came true 2/7
Have a look at Changed by Rovaniemi Film based on true stories: