Pesäpallo Itä-Länsi 2017
Pesäpallo Itä-Länsi 2017
Finland’s most popular all-star event, the Itä-Länsi pesäpallo match, was held in Imatra’s Ukonniemi area in 2017, during the centenary year of Finland’s independence.
The event was part of the official program celebrating 100 years of Finnish independence. The weekend of five top-level matches drew a total audience of approximately 15,000 spectators.
In 2017, the modern Ukonniemi Stadium served as the main venue for the East–West matches in Imatra.
Previously, Imatra hosted the prestigious men's Itä-Länsi game in 1979 and 1989.
In addition to Ukonniemi Stadium, the event also utilized the facilities of Ukonniemi Arena and the Imatra Ice Arena for VIP receptions, media services, and other functions.
The stadium and the entire Ukonniemi area, with its services, proved to be an excellent setting for the event.
Some visitors even extended their stay to enjoy a longer summer holiday in the scenic surroundings.
Spectators from near and far were pleased, and so were the athletes.