Krolf gains popularity with first Finnish Championships in Saarela, Central Finland

For several years, a small group of enthusiasts has gathered to enjoy krolf, a sport that combines elements of cricket and golf. The popularity of krolf has surged, culminating in the first Finnish Championships held this summer in the quaint village of Saarela, located in Saarijärvi, Central Finland. Participants from across the country convened at the home course of Reijo Leppänen, a key figure in the sport. He humorously recounts how he stumbled upon the game through a failed YouTube search.

Leppänen became passionate about krolf and established Finland’s first krolf club, named Linjala Krolf after his home. He also constructed a course that began as a smooth lawn for his grandchildren’s ball games. This has now expanded into a full 36-hole layout on nearby fields and in his yard.

Participants use croquet balls and mallets, striking the balls much like in golf, but with minimal elevation. Victory is determined by the fewest strokes taken. Leppänen became well-versed in the game through visits to Denmark, where krolf originated in the 1970s.

The sport is immensely popular in Denmark, boasting thousands of licensed players and several competitive leagues. Leppänen notes that succeeding in krolf requires mastery of both swinging technique and strength. While the size of the balls remains constant, their weights can vary, and players are allowed to switch balls between holes.

In Finland, there are approximately 100 krolf players, with around half affiliated with Leppänen’s club. He appreciates the “hygge” atmosphere of the game, emphasizing the joys of outdoor activity, light exercise, and social interaction.