Siiri Rantanen touched the Finnish sports people with his joie de vivre and positive attitude. The skiing family remembered the pioneer of women’s sports with warmth.
Anu Karttunen,
Laura Arffman
Relay silver medalist at the Sochi Olympic Games Anne Kyllönen said he followed Siiri Rantanen life through the media actively.
– It was really sad news for the evening. Siiri “Äitee” Rantanen has been a true pioneer in Finnish women’s cross-country skiing. An ambassador of joy and positive energy, Kyllönen said.
– I always read Mother’s interviews with great interest. He always had something really important to learn about life to say.
Kyllönen never got to meet Rantas face to face, but heard a lot about him from his close circle.
– My mother’s aunt, who was also into competitive skiing, often told me fondly about Siiri’s career when I was young.
Sprint skiing world champion Pirjo Muranen said that he didn’t meet Siiri Ranta many times, but the encounters have been well remembered.
– A genuine, honest legend whose actions I have followed from afar. Unyieldingness has probably been one significant strength that has taken him far in many ways, also the secret of a long life, Muranen communicated.
– When talking about him, the way he took care of himself by moving also comes to mind. An active lifestyle has paid off in many respects. An admirable and respectful example for all people.
Matti Heikkinen: A large part of Finnish skiing history is gone
The sad news of Siiri Rantanen’s passing reached the world champion and the head of the top sports unit of the Finnish Olympic Committee Matti Heikkinen from Oslo.
– A large part of Finnish skiing and sports history left our ranks, Heikkinen wrote.
– I met a couple of times in passing, but it was impossible not to notice his personality. By skiing hard and speaking directly, she was a pioneer and forerunner of the status of women in the context of sports.
Multiple world champion Virpi Sarasvuo (formerly Kuitunen) considered Siiri Rantas a pioneer, whose pro-life nature impressed him.
– Siiri Rantase exuded joie de vivre and humor. She is a shining gem in the chain of women’s sports. Rantanen created opportunities for future female athletes with her own success and attitude, Sarasvuo said.
– Strength for loved ones to give up and mourn.
The documentary about Siiri Rantase, Äitee – Sisulla to win, will be shown on TV2 next week, Saturday 13 May at 17:15 after the Superpesis match.