Page 25 - AEF-AlbertaBits_Winter-2025

P
art horseback riding and part skiing, the sport of skijoring (a word
derived from the Norwegian term for “ski driving”) combines two passions
in an exhilarating way.
“It’s a mash-up of speed, skill, style and swagger,” says Sara Skotarek
Loch, who serves as the volunteer lead for Skijor Canada. “Horses gallop
down a snow-packed track towing skiers who navigate gates, jumps and
rings, often in costumes that match the festive vibe.”
Skijor Canada holds a skijor event as part of Banff SnowDays in January
and hosts SkijorDue at Calgary’s Confluence Historic Site & Parkland in
February. Skotarek Loch organizes the many volunteers who help put on
the exhibitions.
“It serves (as) a demonstration to introduce people to the sport,”
Skotarek Loch says. “Skijoring has completely changed how many
equestrians approach winter. Instead of turning their horses out for the
season, riders are now conditioning, shoeing and training specifically for
skijor events. It’s incredible to see so many barns staying active
Photo by Leah Hennel