The best Nordic coldblood competed for the first prize of SEK 1 million in Elitkampen and it was the Finnish national anthem that sounded over Solvalla.
Pro made his third appearance in Elitkampen and finally got to step into the Solvalla winner's circle, well supported by Swedish crowd favorite Björn Goop.
In the trials for Elitkampen at Vermo, Björn Goop won with his stablemate Stallone. Now he got the chance behind Pro and didn't hesitate. He forced his horse to the lead just over a lap before the finish when the first 500 opened after 1.16,9. Björn Goop had to slow down slightly and Pro had no problem keeping away at 1.19,2a/1.640 meters.
The only mare in the race, Majblomster, served a track pin by Örjan Kihlström, sprinted in second and ran more than half a second under big sister Stjärnblomster's Swedish record, but her sister's record stands, as Swedish records can only be noted in victory. There were also Swedes in third place in the form of B.W.Sture and Mats Djuse.
- "I won this race as Evartti's coach three years ago and I've really been looking forward to it. It feels fantastic and count on me coming back next year as well," said Pro's coach Antti Ojanperä.
Björn Goop has taken over 8,000 victories, but never before won Elitkampen at Solvalla.
- The horse was incredibly good, a little spirited at the beginning, but held off without problems. It's a great feeling just to be able to participate this weekend and when you also get to win in front of this crowd! It's a magical feeling," said Björn Goop.
