Sámi Week Tromsø: Reindeer Racing and Lasso Throwing

General information

The programme includes the Norwegian Lasso Throwing Championships on Saturday and the Norwegian Reindeer Racing Championships on Sunday.

Experience the excitement as specially trained reindeer race through Storgata in the heart of Tromsø, and watch skilled lasso throwers compete in precision and speed.

Norwegian Lasso Throwing Championships

The lasso is an important tool in reindeer herding. Catching the right reindeer in a moving herd requires precision, skill and quick reactions. Lasso throwing is also a competitive sport governed by the Sámi Sports Association and is particularly popular among Sámi and reindeer herders.

MSM and SVL have organised the Norwegian Lasso Throwing Championships annually since 2005. Competitors must hit a moving target that is visible for only a few seconds. The target consists of three poles placed one metre apart. Hitting the middle pole awards three points, while hitting either of the outer poles awards one point.

Women and men compete in the same class, with women throwing from a distance of seven metres and men from nine metres.

The competition is open to everyone, but places are limited. Early registration is recommended.

Norwegian Reindeer Racing Championships

Reindeer racing has been part of Sámi Week in Tromsø since 2004. The reindeer are specially trained for the sport and can reach speeds of up to 60 km/h as they race along Storgata, pulling their drivers on skis.

Participants must qualify through a selection race organised by the Sámi Sports Association, SVL. The sprint covers 201 metres, and the races are often so close that high-speed photo-finish cameras are needed to determine the winner.

The official world record is 14.96 seconds and is held by Anders Nils K. Eira from Karasjok.

In addition to the championships, Sámi Week offers a diverse cultural programme throughout the city and a traditional Arctic market. The event brings modern city life together with Sámi culture and traditions during a few eventful winter days in Tromsø.

We hope to see you there!

To learn more about Sámi Week and view the full programme, visit the official Sámi Week website.