On May 29, 2024, the racing community in Northern Ontario was shaken when Heyden’s Rob Hiiemaa, known to fans as the “Flying Finn”, suffered a major health crisis. Doctors delivered the life-altering news: without a heart transplant, his life was in danger. At that moment, it looked as though his days behind the wheel of the #50 Super Late Model at Laird Raceway might be over forever.
Just over a year later, in one of the most inspirational comebacks in local sports history, Rob strapped back into his race car on July 31, 2025—his first race since receiving his new heart on June 8, 2024. With the green flag waving, he returned to the track he loves, chasing the checkered flag with the same determination and grit that earned him his nickname.
“It was a sense of accomplishment to be able to do it. I was not sure how my body would react, but i was pleased. I had no expectations going in. It felt really good to be back with my many friends at the track.
Physically it was very good, I was not tired at the end of the night but I am still increasing my strength and stamina which I feel is much better than before my surgery. Mentally I feel as sharp as ever.”
Hiiemaa is the first to credit the people around him for making this comeback possible. “First of all, my wife Kim was beside me the whole way and never stopped supporting me,” he shared. His children, extended family, and close friends stood strong through the toughest days. Beyond his immediate circle, the support poured in from all corners—the Sault Ste. Marie community, his colleagues at the Heyden Fire Department, his business partners, and, of course, the racing family that has always had his back.
Hiiemaa is also quick to recognize those who were there at critical moments. Laird Raceway owner Donnie Varcoe provided constant support throughout his recovery, while Keith Horner played a vital role in getting Rob to the hospital on that fateful day when every second mattered.
When asked about returning to the 2025 Mike Parsons Memorial weekend on August 22nd and 23rd, Rob added “heading back to the Memorial Race is prestigious to me because Mike was a good friend of mine and it would be an honour to win it just for that. My driving style has changed a bit but it has to do more with the setup installed into the car .
A victory at the memorial would mark a milestone in my recovery from my surgery fourteen months ago but with all the competition it will be a major task which I do not underestimate.”
“I know I was long but so many people supported me back here in the Sault that the doctors in Toronto were amazed. My faith played a role as I saw the light and God decided to give me a second chance and I will not quit!” added Hiiemaa.
Now, with a new lease on life and his passion for racing stronger than ever, the “Flying Finn” is back where he belongs—behind the wheel of his #50, writing the next chapter of a story defined by perseverance, community, and love for the sport.
