Athletics | Ilona Mononen May Win European Championship Medal, Says Expert

Ilona Mononen is proving to be a rising star in Finnish endurance running, and her recent performance is turning heads. Shattering the 30-year-old Finnish record in the 5km road race with a time of 15:10 is a remarkable achievement, signaling her exceptional current form. This feat alone would be cause for celebration, but it also serves as a potent indicator of her potential for the upcoming season, particularly at the European Championships in Birmingham.

“

You have to be prepared that a medal will come from England.

As reported by Helsingin Sanomat, expert Lauri Hollo is optimistic, predicting Mononen has a strong chance for a medal. This confidence is rooted in Mononen's proven track record as a strong championship performer. Her ability to excel in high-pressure environments, such as the Rome 2024 European Championships, Paris 2024 Olympics, and Tokyo 2025 World Championships, is well-documented. Hollo specifically praises her excellent hurdling technique, a crucial asset in crowded steeplechase races.

“

Championship races have suited Ilona. Compared to many top athletes, she has an excellent skill for reading hurdles, and that is an advantage when running in a large group.

While tactical prowess is vital, Hollo emphasizes that raw speed is also necessary for medal contention. Mononen's current Finnish record in the 3000m steeplechase stands at 9:21.02, and Hollo believes shaving off crucial seconds is achievable. He suggests that with consistent development and proper race preparation, she could potentially break the nine-minute barrier, a mark that would place her firmly in medal contention at Birmingham. This steady, year-on-year improvement, a rarity among Finnish athletes, underscores Mononen's dedication and potential for future success on the global stage.

“

It is not unrealistic to think that Ilona will run under nine minutes someday.

For Finland, a nation that rarely produces world-class endurance runners, Mononen represents a beacon of hope. Her potential to compete for medals at the European Championships is not just a personal triumph but a significant moment for Finnish athletics. While international coverage might focus on established global stars, we at Helsingin Sanomat recognize the unique significance of Mononen's journey. Her consistent progress and burgeoning talent offer a compelling narrative of dedication and potential, resonating deeply with a Finnish audience eager to see their athletes succeed on the international stage.

“

With such a time, we would be in the medal fight in Birmingham. France's Alice Finot won gold in Rome with a time of 9.16.