HANNU TUUKKALA

HANNU TUUKKALA : VANTAA, FINLAND

Based in Vantaa, Finland, Hannu Tuukkala balances a busy professional life with a passion for endurance sport and outdoor adventure. As an executive in a building and construction company, his work often involves office commitments and regular business travel. Outside of work, family time is incredibly important, and much of it is spent enjoying the outdoors – especially at the family’s summer house in the beautiful Saimaa Lake region.

For Hannu, life outdoors is about embracing the Nordic lifestyle. Whether it’s sport, hunting, or simply watching the sunset over the lakes, nature plays a big role in how he relaxes and recharges.

The Endurance Journey

Hannu’s introduction to endurance sport happened almost by accident. His first race was a 60km long boat rowing competition, and from there curiosity led him to explore other disciplines including trail running, orienteering and cycling.

What started as a challenge soon became something more meaningful. Endurance sport became a powerful way to balance the pressures of work and life, helping him manage stress while staying physically and mentally strong.

When it came to preparing for the Kathmandu Coast to Coast, joining TEAMCPNZ felt like the obvious choice.

For Hannu, attempting such an iconic race from the other side of the world required expert guidance and a strong support system.

“TEAMCPNZ offered a great concept for Coast to Coast preparation. The coaches are professional and know exactly what is relevant, and what isn’t, in multisport training and racing.”

Training Life

Training often starts early for Hannu. One of his favourite sessions is the 5am indoor trainer ride. While it might sound tough, starting the day like that brings a real sense of accomplishment.

“After you’ve done it, you feel energised for the whole day.”

Of course, not every session is quite so appealing. Hannu jokes that the toughest sessions are often Coach Richard Greer’s indoor trainer workouts, or occasionally navigating big rapids during kayaking sessions.

When it comes to recovery, Hannu keeps it simple, coffee after training with a bowl of porridge, followed by one of the great Finnish traditions: a hot sauna, especially during the long winter months.

The Big Moment

One achievement stands above the rest so far, finishing the Kathmandu Coast to Coast in 2026.

For Hannu, completing such an iconic and challenging event on the other side of the world was a huge milestone.

But the journey may not be finished just yet.

Looking Ahead

The next big goal is already forming.

Coast to Coast 2027 is firmly on the horizon as Hannu wonders just how much further he can push himself.

“The event really gets under your skin. There are so many factors to consider, and many things you simply can’t control. You just go out there and do your best.”

What makes Coast to Coast so special for Hannu is that there is nothing quite like it in Europe, making the experience even more unique.

In the meantime, his calendar is packed with events across Finland including:

• Ruka Nuts 55km Trail Run (May)

• Jukola Orienteering Relay (June)

• Sulkava 60km Rowing Race (July)

• Saimaa 50km Cycling Event (July)

• Marathon of Dangers 45km Trail Run (October)

The TEAMCPNZ Difference

What Hannu enjoys most about being part of TEAMCPNZ is the people and their stories.

“It’s fascinating to hear why others take on these challenges. Often you discover that the motivation is very similar to your own.”

That shared motivation and sense of adventure creates a strong connection across the TEAMCPNZ community, even when athletes are spread across the globe.

Advice for New Athletes

Hannu’s advice for anyone considering their own endurance journey is simple:

Be brave and give it a go.

Try different endurance sports, experiment with what you enjoy, and eventually you’ll find the one that suits you best.

Quick Fire

Sunrise or sunset training? Sunrise
Gravel or road? Road
Hills or flats? Hills
Zwift or outside riding? Outside
Long slow ride or hard intervals? Both, depending on the mood

TEAMCPNZ
Everyday people achieving epic things.