Marianne Haug wins her first Estonian title after battling stomach problems, while Lauri Sild triumphs again

Marianne Haug won her first Estonian championship in the classic orienteering distance after spending part of the race battling stomach problems. Lauri Sild captured the men’s title for the sixth time at Lake Aheru in Valga County.

The mountainous terrain featured elevation differences of up to 40 meters. Storm damage and tall grass made parts of the forest difficult to cross, while course planner Mait Tõnisson set long and technically demanding routes. Choosing the right paths became harder as competitors tired.

The women’s 11.4-kilometer race remained close. Laura Joonas led Sigrid Ruul during the first half, before Ruul moved into first place. Haug was only sixth halfway through the course after struggling with her stomach during the opening hour.

Once the problem eased, Haug regained her strength and moved rapidly through the field. She took the lead during the final 15 minutes and won in 1:56:24. Ruul finished second, 50 seconds behind, while Joonas took bronze, 2:28 behind the winner.

The men’s 15-kilometer race centered on defending champion Jürgen Joonas, Sild and last year’s bronze medalist Kristo Heinmann. Ukraine’s Ruslan Glibov, competing outside the championship standings, also challenged strongly. The 39-year-old, who has two World Championship medals, held second place behind Sild to the finish. Joonas secured the Estonian silver ahead of Heinmann. Sild won in 1:46:51, followed by Glibov at 1:03, Joonas at 5:46 and Heinmann at 7:44.