Rauno Miettinen, a celebrated figure in Finnish skiing with a storied career, continues to draw attention in his hometown of Suonenjoki, especially during skiing competitions. With a history of one Olympic silver and three World Championship silvers, he proudly served as the flagbearer for Finland at the 1976 Innsbruck Olympics. Miettinen is currently the focus of a new exhibition showcasing his sports career, but he is also passionately discussing the future of combined events, particularly the need for women's categories to be recognized in the Olympics.

The recent Olympic success of athlete Eero Hirvonen, who won bronze, has sparked emotions and camaraderie among Finnish competitors, linking the current generation with past champions like Miettinen. Miettinen's heartfelt response to Hirvonen's achievement, describing how he shed a tear during the broadcast, reflects the deep connection athletes share across generations. This emotional moment highlights the pride and spirit within Finnish sports culture and Miettinen’s significance as a mentor and inspirational figure.

Moreover, Finland's recent achievements in combined events are boosting optimism and motivation among fans and athletes alike. With the momentum from Hirvonen's and Ilkka Herola's Olympic medal wins, Miettinen emphasizes the potential for further successes and advocates for more inclusive opportunities for women in the sport, reflecting broader calls for gender equality in athletics. His advocacy for women's combined events resonates well as Finnish skiing continues to evolve and inspire future generations of athletes.