Okay, this is a rather surprising coincidence. Until about 2 months ago, I (like most, I would imagine) was mostly unaware of the Finnish concept of "sisu."
At the very top of the Keweenaw Peninsula in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, there is a tiny town called Copper Harbor. The entire area has a strongly Finnish history. It is a remote, relatively mountainous area, where in recent years they hold an event in July called Run the Keweenaw. The event entails 3 races. On day 1, they have a 5k trail run in the morning, followed by a 10k in the afternoon. The next day, they hold a 25k run. All 3 races are done on rocky terrain over mountain bike trails, and the extreme elevation changes make for a grueling challenge.
My 64 year-old bride is a feisty, athletic lady, who discovered this event last year, so for the past 2 years we have ventured north so she could participate. At the close of the event each year, when all participants gather for the closing ceremony, after all the awards have been distributed for winners of each race by sex and age group, they give out an award called the Sisu award, to that runner who has best demonstrated the tenacity and determination that define the sisu spirit. This year's award was presented to my bride. Yes, I am proud of her.
We will be watching the movie. Thanks for sharing.
