A technical delegation from European Masters Athletics (EMA) visited Jyväskylä from 24 to 26 July 2026 to inspect the venues planned for the European Masters Athletics Championships (EMACS) 2027. Technical Manager Knud Høyer and Cross Country & Road Running Coordinator Kalle Glomsaker toured the competition sites and met with the local organizing team to review preparations for the championships.
During the three-day visit, the delegation conducted a comprehensive inspection of the event’s key venues. The programme included visits to the two athletics stadiums, throwing event facilities, and both the cross country and road running courses. Particular attention was paid to venue functionality, accessibility, athlete and spectator services, and the overall competition experience.
The timing of the visit coincided with the Finnish Athletics Championships (Kalevan Kisat), providing an excellent opportunity to see the newly renovated Harju Stadium in full operation during its first major athletics event. The stadium received widespread praise from athletes, organizers, and international experts, while offering the EMA delegation a valuable chance to observe the venue under genuine championship conditions.
Harju Stadium made a particularly strong impression. Located in the heart of Jyväskylä, the venue combines high-quality athletics facilities with a unique atmosphere and outstanding spectator experience. The delegation also noted the smooth event organization, the strength of the volunteer programme, and the enthusiastic support shown by local spectators throughout the championships.
In addition to the stadium facilities, the delegation inspected the throwing event venues, evaluating field layouts, safety arrangements, and the logistical requirements of staging championship competitions. These assessments help ensure that all competition sites will meet the standards expected of a European Masters Athletics Championship.
For the cross country and road running events, the visitors explored both the forest trails of Harju and the scenic Rantaraitti route that circles Lake Jyväsjärvi. The courses offer athletes a unique combination of natural surroundings, well-developed infrastructure, and easy accessibility. The routes showcase some of the most attractive landscapes in the Jyväskylä region while remaining close to the city centre and championship services.
The visit also included detailed discussions on competition scheduling, coordination between venues, and athlete transportation. These meetings provided an opportunity to review key operational plans and ensure that all aspects of the championships are progressing according to schedule. The overall atmosphere throughout the visit was highly positive, and the delegation gained a comprehensive understanding of Jyväskylä’s readiness to welcome thousands of masters athletes from across Europe.
The successful organization of the Finnish Championships at the renewed Harju Stadium further reinforced confidence in Jyväskylä’s ability to host major international sporting events. For the EMACS 2027 organizing team, the EMA technical visit marked an important milestone in the preparation process and provided valuable feedback for the continued development of the event.
Preparations for EMACS 2027 are continuing at full pace. Jyväskylä is building an event that combines world-class competition venues, efficient services, and a unique sporting atmosphere in the heart of Central Finland. The July visit demonstrated that preparations are well on track and that the city offers excellent conditions for hosting a memorable European Masters Athletics Championship.
