There’s nothing cooler than watching skiers getting pulled by horses down Blair Street during the annual Silverton Skijoring races. If you’ve never seen it, you’re missing out.
Happen to be a skijoring virgin? Here’s a quick and dirty: Competitors use short skis and are hooked up to a horse with some type of modified waterskiing-towing equipment. The skiers are towed through a course that includes jumps, gates and rings that they pick up with a stick. All while being pulled by horses that are galloping really, really fast. In the snow. With tons of people hooting and hollering.
Skiers must finish the course and cross the finish line or the team will be disqualified. And skiers have to cross in an upright position and on at least one ski with the tow rope in hand. And both skier’s boots have to cross the finish line … hopefully still attached to the skier.
The action will start at high noon Saturday in Silverton, so get up there early to claim your spot along the route.
Participants and spectators are reminded that this is a dog-free event, and that dogs and horses do not mix at this kind of thing, so leave your furry friends at home.
For more information, call 744-9446.
