Paavo Lonkila facts for kids
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Quick facts for kids Personal information |
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| Born | 11 January 1923 Kiuruvesi, Finland |
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| Died | 22 September 2017 (aged 94) Kiuruvesi, Finland |
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| Height | 157 cm | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Weight | 53–54 kg | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sport | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sport | Cross-country skiing | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Club | Kiuruveden Jänne, Kiuruvesi | ||||||||||||||||||||||
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Medal record
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Paavo Olavi Lonkila (born Lång on 11 January 1923 – 22 September 2017) was a famous Finnish cross-country skier. He was known for his strong performances in the early 1950s. Paavo Lonkila also worked as a farmer.
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Paavo Lonkila's Skiing Career
Paavo Lonkila was a top athlete in cross-country skiing. He competed in major international events. These included the Winter Olympics and World Championships. He was a key member of the Finnish national team.
Olympic Games Success
Paavo Lonkila achieved great success at the 1952 Winter Olympics in Oslo, Norway. He won two medals there. This was a highlight of his career.
- Gold Medal: He was part of the Finnish team that won the gold medal in the 4 × 10 kilometer relay race. This is a team event where four skiers each complete a 10 km leg.
- Bronze Medal: In the individual 18 kilometer race, Paavo Lonkila earned a bronze medal. He finished just 11 seconds behind his teammate, Tapio Mäkelä.
World Championships Achievements
Before his Olympic wins, Paavo Lonkila also competed in the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships. These championships bring together the best skiers from around the world.
- Silver Medal: At the 1950 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in Lake Placid, USA, Paavo Lonkila helped his team win a silver medal. This was also in the 4 × 10 kilometer relay event.
- Fifth Place: In the same championships, he finished fifth in the individual 18 kilometer race.
Other Notable Wins
Paavo Lonkila also won the 18 kilometer event at the 1951 Holmenkollen ski festival. This is a very old and respected ski competition held in Norway. Winning there showed his consistent skill.
