Pekka Kemppi, the head of ski maintenance for the Finnish Nordic combined team, has been pivotal in Finland's unexpected success at the Olympics, helping the nation secure medals every single day of the competition. Despite initial hopes for just one medal, the achievement exceeded expectations, highlighting Kemppi's significant behind-the-scenes contribution. The athletes Ilkka Herola and Eero Hirvonen earned individual bronze medals and a silver in the team competition, showcasing their talents on the international stage.

The key to their success lay in the quality of the skis, which were essential for optimal performance at high-stakes events, such as the Olympics in Val di Fiemme. Kemppi emphasized the importance of maintaining the best equipment, mentioning that the skis had to be perfectly prepared with special finishes and waxes. His pattern, known as the "Pekka pattern," was used on the bases of all Finnish competitors' skis, a testament to his expertise and the trust placed in him by the team.

Kemppi credited his colleagues, like Hannu Hovila, for the collaborative efforts in refining the ski technology. This victory and the usage of advanced equipment underscore the importance of detailed preparation and teamwork in elite sports, reflecting a broader trend in athletics where technology and traditional skills converge to create exceptional competitive advantages.