If you have ever wondered how many times Estonia is mentioned in The Guinness Book of Records, the answer is currently 94. Since 1955 The Guinness Book of Records has been educating readers about mankind's achievements in a multitude of fields. Some of these achievements are quite impressive, some surprising whilst others are a bit on the quirky side. The record book contains a treasure trove of information for anyone who loves facts. Here are five Guinness World Records about Estonia you might find interesting.
1. First FIFA World Cup qualifying match. Estonia vs. Sweden.
On 11 June 1933, Sweden beat Estonia 6–2 in the first ever qualifying match for the FIFA World Cup. Later in the tournament Estonia made it through to the quarter-finals.
2. Estonia has the oldest Viking boats
Two ships found on the island of Saaremaa are the oldest Viking boats in the world. The first boat was discovered in 2008, and a second in 2010. The boats contained the bodies of over 30 warriors and four dogs, they were covered with their shields and buried with their bent swords. Radio carbon dating has dated them to between 700-750 AD.
3. Largest matchstick
In 2004 Jaanus Ruuben created the world's largest matchstick. It measured 6.235 metres (20 ft 5 in) long with a cross section of 27.5 cm (10.8 in). It was lit at the Ugala Theatre in Viljandi.
4. Farthest swim with a monofin
On her 30th birthday, Merle Liivand swam 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) off Miami Beach, Florida, achieving the world record for the farthest swim with a monofin. She swam without using her arms, propelling herself with just her mermaid-like fin, for a total of 9 hours and 19 minutes.
5. Most X Games medals won by a teenager
Freestyle skier Kelly Sildaru has won the most X Games medals (10) between 29 January 2016 and 21 January 2022. She has won a total of six golds, three silvers and a bronze before her 20th birthday. Kelly is an Estonian sporting superstar!
