Werpschijf - Vintage Karhu Discus

Vintage Karhu Wooden Discus – Oy Urheilutarpeita Helsinki, Finland ca. 1916-1930
Rare early Finnish athletic discus made by Karhu (meaning “Bear” in Finnish). The company was founded in 1916 as O.Y. Urheilutarpeita – Sportartiklar Ab in Helsinki and produced high-quality throwing equipment for training and competition.
Key features:
Diameter: 21.5 cm
Heavy wooden body with original metal rim and central metal plates
Clearly stamped: “SPORTARTICLES C.O. LTD. HELSINKI FINLAND” and “O.Y. URHEILUTARPEITA”
Other side features “HELSINKI – O.Y. URHEILUTARPEITA – KARHU” with embossed bear logo
Original Karhu paper label with the iconic skiing bear
This is an authentic early example from the brand’s founding period, before “Karhu” became the dominant name. Karhu equipment was used in international competitions and the Olympic Games.
Condition: Good antique condition with honest wear, patina on the metal, and natural signs of age and previous use. Not suitable for modern throwing but perfect as a display piece or for collectors of sports memorabilia / Finnish athletics history.
A genuine piece of Finnish sporting heritage!