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The Loggersports

loggersportLumberjacks have been around for as long as humans have needed lumber. Originally, logging was a seasonal job and offered specialty jobs within logging. Due to modern technology, there are fewer specialized jobs although the basic tasks remain the same. However, in the 1960s, a new sport began called Loggersports. Originally these games began in the logging camps to see who the best lumberjack was.

Nowadays, this competition continues to keep the logging traditions going and illustrate the impact forestry has had on our own history. Surprisingly, loggersports is one of the most highly viewed sports, coming in with 12,000 viewers. The sports are also televised on ESPN and sponsored by STIHL (they make chainsaws, leafblowers and other handheld power tools) with the Lumberjack World Championship being the most notable event. During this championship, competitors from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Australia compete in 21 events for a grand prize of $50,000. The events include: block chop, logrolling, single buck, hot saw, and speed climb. There is a men's and women's competition.

loggersportA New Zealand group called the Kiwi Loggers have crossed the plain between sports and entertainment. Although members compete in actual tournaments, they also are available for catered events. This sport has also made its way to college campuses such as Algonquin College in Ottawa, Flathead Valley Community College in Washington, University of Idaho, and many others. Humboldt State University has one of the oldest loggersports tradition, going back 50 years. Every Saturday, the members practice logging and then compete against each other once a year. There are a number of schools that offer logging as a sport, although some colleges will only accept Forestry Technician majors. Although there are regional championships against other colleges, the majority of teams participate in the amateur circuit, with some advancing to the Lumberjack World Championship.

For more information on Lumberjack World Championships,
check out www.lumberjackworldchampionships.com