Join us as we explore why Paavo Nurmi remains a timeless symbol of determination, precision, and Finnish tenacity.

Kalle Virtapohja, the author of “Phantom Finn”, Jari Salonen, the CEO of Paavo Nurmi Games, and Anne-Mari Paster, a sport enthusiast inspired and motivated by Paavo Nurmi’s legacy, explore the enduring impact of Paavo Nurmi´s 1925 U.S. tour. Three Finns with strong connection to Turku, the home town of Paavo Nurmi, talk about the greatest runner of all time.

Paavo Nurmi, known as the “Phantom Finn”, redefined athletic excellence with his Olympic gold medals and triumphs and his enigmatic 1925 tour of the United States – a journey that captivated audiences and sparked enduring debates about amateurism in sport.

This panel brings together three unique perspectives to explore Nurmi’s multifaceted legacy as a global sports icon and a cultural touchstone in both Finland and the U.S.


This centennial conversation blends historical analysis, modern athleticism, and local heritage. Attendees will gain deeper insight into Nurmi’s contradictions—his stoic demeanor contrasted with global fame—and discover how his stopwatch-driven approach to running left an enduring mark on the world of sports and on the cultural identity of Turku and Finland.

PRESENTERS

Kalle Virtapohja, author of Phantom Finn–The Contradictory Story of Paavo Nurmi in the Land of Dollars, uncovers the complexities behind Nurmi’s famed 1925 American tour, during which he competed before massive crowds while navigating controversies over professionalism and Olympic eligibility.

Jari Salonen, CEO of the Paavo Nurmi Games, will share insights into the evolution of the prestigious athletics event founded in 1957 in Nurmi’s hometown of Turku. Now part of the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold, the Games continue to honor Nurmi’s competitive spirit and discipline-driven legacy.

Anne-Mari Paster, a former Turku resident, brings a personal lens to the discussion. Having recently visited Nurmi’s modest childhood home, she reflects on how his story continues to resonate in both Turku and the United States – connecting generations through shared narratives of resilience, ambition, and Finnish sisu.