The name Yrjö Saarela appears on a gravestone engraved with the Olympic rings in Liminka, marking the final resting place of the only Olympic gold medalist from North Ostrobothnia. Born Yrjö Sarkkinen in 1884 at Oulujoki, he underwent a name change after his family moved to a farmstead that became his life's work as a farmer and an amateur wrestler.
Wrestling Career and Achievements
Under the guidance of coach Carl Allén, Saarela began his wrestling pursuit in 1906. By 1908, his competence secured him a spot on the Finnish Olympic team without trials. He achieved a silver medal at the 1908 Olympic Games. In 1911, he took the top title in the over 83 kg category at the World Wrestling Championships. He followed this with a gold medal performance at the 1912 Olympic Games. During this period, he won Finnish national heavyweight championships in 1908 and 1909. Following a hiatus and a professional stint in international circuses, he regained amateur status in 1924, eventually securing a national bronze medal in 1929 at age 44.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Farming Life and Economic Challenges
Born into a family that acquired the Saarela farm, he inherited two-thirds of the property. He married Ester Elisabeth Markuksela in 1910, and together they had seven children: Aino Kyllikki, Ahti Johannes, Erkko Olavi, Marja-Liisa, Yrjö Eino Mikael, Pentti Johannes, and Pirkko Kaarina. His financial stability was tested during the Great Depression when he acted as a surety for loans that subsequently defaulted. This led to his farm entering bankruptcy in 1931. Through an inheritance, he managed to stabilize his finances and resume his agricultural operations.
Later Years and Legacy
During the 1930s, Saarela served as a regional coaching consultant for the Finnish Wrestling Federation. His contributions to Finnish sport were recognized by the Ministry of Education in 1948 with the award of the Cross of Merit, in gold, of the Finnish Sports. In 1944, he suffered a stroke that left him paralyzed. He died in 1951 at the age of 67. His Olympic medals remain preserved in the collection of the Sports Museum of Finland.
Fast facts
- Born: 1884, Oulujoki
- Died: 1951, Liminka
- Citizenship: Finland, Russian Empire
- Occupations: Farmer, amateur wrestler
- Gold Medal: 1912 Olympic Games
- Award: Cross of Merit, in gold, of the Finnish Sports (1948)
- Spouse: Ester Elisabeth Markuksela
Questions readers ask
What was the significance of the 1912 Olympic final?
Saarela faced Olin in a double-elimination tournament; accounts suggest mutual favors allowed Saarela to secure the gold medal.
Did Saarela remain an amateur throughout his life?
He had a brief professional career in circuses after 1912 but had his amateur status reinstated in 1924.
