European Sauna Marathon Marks 15th Anniversary in Otepaa, Estonia
The 15th edition of the European Sauna Marathon unfolded in the frosty town of Otepaa, Estonia, drawing competitors clad in elaborate fancy dress to participate in this unique and spirited event. Participants braved the icy conditions, dashing through the town to visit as many saunas as possible within a strict five-hour timeframe, all vying for coveted prizes.
Team-Based Competition with Strict Rules
Contestants were organised into teams of four, with the winning group determined by who could visit every designated sauna in the fastest time. To ensure fairness, all team members were required to spend a minimum of three minutes in each sauna for it to count towards their total. Adding an element of mystery, the marathon also featured 'secret saunas', where teams had to accurately guess the exact duration spent inside to earn points.
Bonus Points and Fancy Dress Prizes
Beyond the core challenge, bonus points were awarded for daring dips in ice holes and cold water pools, encouraging participants to embrace the full brunt of the winter elements. The event also celebrated creativity with prizes for the best fancy dress, showcasing a vibrant array of costumes. Competitors were spotted dressed as characters ranging from the Teletubbies and Where's Wally? to Stitch from the film Lilo & Stitch, adding a festive and humorous atmosphere to the proceedings.
Scenes from the Marathon
The marathon was a spectacle of endurance and fun, with participants seen studying maps of Otepaa, waiting eagerly outside saunas, and even dancing with sauna owners. Highlights included individuals in chicken costumes braving the heat, groups dressed as bugs tackling icy hills, and teams in fluorescent outfits smiling through the cold. The combination of sauna visits and icy plunges created a memorable experience for all involved, reinforcing the event's reputation as a beloved annual tradition in Estonia.
