Are lumberjack competitions a real thing? It turns out that lumberjack competitions are not only real, they’ve become an increasingly popular sport over the past few decades. For those of us who don’t know much about lumberjacking, it can seem like a strange and dangerous activity.
Lumberjacking has long been associated with hard work in North America’s forests. But since the early 1980s, the sport has taken on a more competitive edge. Logging sports have become a popular way for lumberjacks to test their strength and skill against their peers.
From ax throwing to log rolling, these events challenge participants’ strength, speed, and endurance – all while providing an exhilarating show for spectators.
Let’s take a look at some of the main events in a Lumberjack competition.
Log Rolling (Birling)
The first activity in Lumberjack competitions is log rolling. This involves two competitors balancing on a floating log and attempting to stay balanced for the longest time possible.
The log is rolled deliberately with the aim of unbalancing the opponent. It’s quite a sight to behold – the contestants spinning around in circles, trying to maintain their balance and outlast their opponent.
Speed Pole Climbing
One of the most popular events in these competitions is speed pole climbing. This event requires competitors to climb a vertical pole as quickly as possible using a predetermined technique that varies from competition to competition.
In some competitions, the participants will climb with their hands and feet, while in others they may use a belt or special climbing device. Competitors must reach the top of the pole within a certain time limit in order to qualify for points.
The process of speed pole climbing can be very strenuous on the body and requires an intense level of physical exertion. The climber must have strong upper body strength and excellent coordination in order to get up the pole quickly and safely.
In addition, they must have good hand-eye coordination skills, as well as agility and balance, in order to make it up the pole without slipping or losing grip on it.
Many types of poles are used for this event, ranging from thick wooden poles to metal pipes. Poles may also be curved or straight, depending on the type of competition being held.
Speed pole climbing is not only popular among professional lumberjacks but is also enjoyed by recreational athletes who take part in amateur competitions around the world. It’s an exciting event that tests one’s strength, agility, and skill all at once!
Boom Running
Another of the most iconic events in a lumberjack competition is known as boom running. This event consists of two competitors running up and down opposing sides of a floating log boom in the water.
The goal is to be the first one to cross over to the other side without falling into the water. It’s an exciting event that showcases strength and agility, as well as finesse.
The main challenge comes from the fact that logs are constantly bobbing around in the water, making it difficult for competitors to keep their balance on the log boom.
Additionally, since competitors are going head-to-head on opposite sides at the same time, they must also factor in their opponent’s movements when deciding when and how to make their move across the log boom. The event is timed, so the pressure is on!
Spectators love this event not only because it’s exciting to watch, but also because it requires a lot of skill and strategy from each competitor. It’s amazing to see two strong lumberjacks battling it out on one of nature’s biggest playgrounds – right out in the middle of a lake!
Throwing
Throwing is a key component of lumberjack competitions. Competitors must demonstrate their strength, agility, and accuracy as they throw a variety of objects at targets.
These objects can range from axes to logs to specially designed implements. Each thrower must hit the target in order to score points and win the event.
In some events, the competitor throws an axe directly at the target. The competitor must be able to accurately gauge the distance between them and the target.
Additionally, they also have to be able to adjust their throwing technique according to the weight of the object they are throwing.
In other events, competitors must throw large logs or other large pieces of timber over a given distance.
This requires strength and agility, as competitors need to be able to lift and throw these heavy objects with enough force so that it reaches its intended target.
It also requires good timing, as competitors must be able to land their throws just before reaching the target in order for it to count for points.
Chopping
Another event in lumberjack competitions is chopping – an event which tests competitors’ strength and speed as they aim to chop through logs as fast as possible.
In a typical chopping competition, competitors must use an axe to chop through a series of logs of different sizes and types. The competitor who chops through their log the fastest wins the competition.
Competitors wear helmets, protective gloves and aprons for safety reasons, but some opt for no protection at all as this can help them move faster.
The current world record for chopping is held by Elgan Pugh, who chopped through 10 logs in just 5.56 seconds!
The intense physicality of chopping requires great skill and concentration from competitors – it’s not just about having strong muscles. Many champions have attributed their success to mental toughness and good technique rather than pure physical power.
Sawing
In these competitions, sawing is one of the most important events. Contestants must be able to use the two-handed crosscut saw to cut through a log as quickly and accurately as possible. The competitors are typically judged on speed and accuracy
To prepare for this event, contestants practice with both full-sized and miniature versions of the saws used in competitions.
These smaller saws are easier to manipulate than their full-sized counterparts, allowing for quicker movements and more precise cutting motions.
Competitors also use weighted gloves to help build muscle strength in their arms and shoulders, which helps them cut through wood faster.
In this event, each contestant has a partner who assists by providing balance while they’re sawing the log. This support ensures that the competitor can focus their energy on making strong cuts and getting through the log as quickly as possible.
The teams with the fastest time win the competition – it’s all about efficiency!
Preparing For A Lumberjack Competition
Preparing for a lumberjack competition is no small task! Before the competition, it is important to practice each event so that you can be well-prepared. You should develop a plan for each event, such as practicing a particular technique or building up strength.
You should also make sure to have the right equipment for each event. Make sure to have the necessary safety equipment such as a helmet and protective gear as well as the tools required for each event. Lastly, it’s important to have a positive attitude and remember to have fun!
Conclusion
Yes, lumberjack competitions are a real thing – and they’re a lot of fun! Competitors must demonstrate their strength, agility, and accuracy with precision in order to win.
Events such as axe throwing, chopping and sawing all require different sets of skills, so competitors must prepare for each event accordingly in order to succeed. With the right amount of practice and dedication, anyone can become a champion!