What has been your most memorable experience as an agility judge?

Throughout my career, I’ve had the chance to judge many wonderful competitions. These include, for example, the Junior World Championships in Helsinki a few years ago, and last year’s EO, the European Open, in the UK.

Still, I feel that every competition I’ve judged is meaningful. Especially those where the organization runs smoothly, the arrangements work well, and people are happy and open. When the joy of agility radiates from both the organizers and the competitors, I enjoy every single event I’m part of.

I can’t single out any one competition as the best. The junior championships were, of course, an amazing experience – my first international championship assignment – and watching young competitors is always exciting for me.

But just as important are the so-called “local” competitions anywhere in the world. Even in these smaller events, I can experience something deeply meaningful. Competitions don’t need to be spectacular or large-scale.

What matters most to me is seeing how people come alive as they run the courses, make their own handling decisions, and showcase their dogs’ amazing skills. I cherish every moment, and every competition is valuable. I can’t – and don’t want to – single out any one over the others.

When designing courses what are the key things you pay special attention to?

For me the most important thing is that the course has clear lines and offers options for the handler. Route choices are always a plus – it’s great when handlers get to use their brains to figure out the best path for themselves and their dog.

It’s important that the course allows the dog’s skills to shine: whether dog’s skills are enough or if the handler wants to help more and move more actively themselves. The course can be challenging but it should also allow for different ways to navigate it.

Safety is, of course, the top priority. After that I emphasize a flowing, energetic pace. The course shouldn’t require the handler to be a top runner. It should strike a balance where the dog can shine and the handler can enable their dog’s best performance. I design courses that I would enjoy running myself.

What do you think is the best thing about Finland – why should people visit besides the amazing competition atmosphere?

Finland is, for me, the most beautiful – and happiest – country in the world. Perhaps what is closest to my heart is nature, especially the forests and lakes. They are my soul place, where I can relax and recharge amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Of course, competitions – and especially the World Championships – are an important reason to travel abroad. But if it’s possible to fit in a little exploring along the way, I recommend visiting nature reserves and hiking trails, of which Finland has plenty.

We also have everyman’s rights, which allow people to move freely in nature as long as they follow the rules. Thanks to this, there are countless amazing places here worth visiting.

If you were a dog what breed would you be and why?

Oh no, this is tough. Some kind of vocal dog, but not too much. I probably wouldn’t say a Spanish Water Dog, because they’re a bit reserved and that doesn’t really fit with me being very social and quite noisy myself.

So what would it be? I don’t know. Terriers aren’t overly social, but they are vocal. A Cocker, on the other hand is always happy, like me, but I don’t think they bark that much. Maybe a mix of these!