The beloved Skijordue event returned to the Foothills in high-flying, powder-shredding, cheesy fashion.
Organized by Skijor Canada, the event returned to the Calgary Polo Club on Feb. 25 after a stint at the Millarville Racetrack followed by a COVID break.
The event is precisely what the name says, a combination of Skijor, with 'sliders' pulled on skis and snowboards behind rider on horseback, and a grand fondue party. Attendees were encouraged to turn out in their best (read also: worst) après-ski attire for a costume contest.
The day featured circuit, relay, sprint and long jump events followed by the popular novelty 'lounge race', with four teams entering a loveseat bolted onto skis and towed behind horses.
In the stands, an overhauled audience environment included an elevated fondue experience, following on the heels of a successful event in Banff.
Skijordue is a fundraiser for Prairie Sky Equine Assisted Therapy and has raised over $20,000 for the cause since its full-fledged debut in 2017. Additionally, Skijordue 2020 raised $4,000 for the Millarville Arena Rebuild Project.
Full race stats can be found at https://next.zone4.ca/event/2023/pAXZl1 and more information about equestrian skijor can be found at SkijorCanada.com.
