The Pirkan Hiihto skiing event, scheduled for the last day of February, will be held at a distance of about 60 kilometers this year, significantly shorter than the usual 90 kilometers. This change is a response to current snow conditions in the area, as the organizing committee found that the snow was not adequate for a full-length event. They highlighted challenging sections where the current snowfall does not allow for proper trail preparation.

In previous years, the Pirkan Hiihto has seen various distances, but this year participants will have the option to choose between 57 kilometers and 24 kilometers, both starting and finishing in the Jämi area. The event, conceptualized by Lauri 'Tahko' Pihkala and Erkki Palolampi, first took place in 1955 and has been held annually with only three exceptions, one of which was last year when the event was canceled due to poor snow conditions that left the trails resembling an ice rink.

The adjustments to this year's event emphasize the ongoing challenges facing winter sports events in Finland. The decision to shorten the distance demonstrates the organizers' commitment to ensuring participant safety while still allowing the event to proceed, albeit in a modified form. This situation reflects broader concerns about climate impact on winter sports and the importance of snow conditions in the successful execution of such traditional events.