Supporting the rowing events

Two Supporting Organizations Behind Sulkava Suursoudut

Sulkava Suursoudut is supported by two key organizations, whose main missions are to preserve the tradition of wooden boat craftsmanship, revive the culture of volunteerism, increase interest in rowing, support the development of young athletes and cultural enthusiasts, and foster a sense of community among rowers and the people of Sulkava.

Soutujen tuki ry

Soutujen Tuki ry operates behind the Sulkava Suursoudut, maintaining and promoting the valuable rowing culture in Sulkava and its surrounding areas. The association aims to be a visible adhesive in strengthening Sulkava´s rowing identity and a unifying force in collecting and preserving important rowing history.

One of the association´s primary goals for 2025, alongside its organizational efforts, is to launch the Rowing Museum Project and start fundraising through the Rowing Lottery. As a non-profit organization, all funds raised will be used for the greater good.

The chairperson of the association is Sulkava Suursoudut Secretary General, Terhi-Maria Aurala, and the vice-chair is Heikki Joskitt. Other board members include Kaarina Virta and Kaisa Miettinen. Soutujen Tuki ry also supports young athletes by offering all full-time students a 30% discount on participation fees.

Anna-Liisa and Kauko Miettinen Fund

The Anna-Liisa and Kauko Miettinen Rowing Fund was established by the heirs of the late master boat builder and visionary behind Sulkava Suursoudut, Kauko Miettinen, and his late wife, Anna-Liisa Miettinen, in collaboration with Sulkava-Seura ry. The fund provides annual scholarships or grants based on decisions made by the selection committee, with the aim of presenting these awards at the Sulkava Suursoudut event.

The selection committee includes representatives from both the Miettinen family and Sulkava- Seura. The fund is continuously maintained, and donations are welcome from anyone wishing to contribute. Donations can be made to the following account:
Anna-Liisa and Kauko Miettinen Rowing Fund IBAN: FI9354 3704 6091 1052

The selection of scholarship recipients is guided by principles that were important to Kauko Miettinen:

– Preserving the rowing culture and wooden boat tradition
– Developing Sulkava Suursoudut
– Ensuring the safety of the event
– Highlighting local entrepreneurs
– Securing the number of participants
– Commitment to long-term efforts towards achieving a dream

The scholarship can be awarded to an individual, multiple individuals, an action, an organization, a community, or other deserving entities.