The events calendar in Jefferson County traditionally begins in June. But tradition is dull, and wintertime can be fun, too. So these days, the events season kicks off when Skijoring the Big Rock invades the Jefferson County Fairgrounds — this year, on Feb. 1 and 2.
Exactly what is Skijoring? It sounds simple enough: A rider on horseback tows a skier along a course. Skiers swing to the right of the rider towing them along a course that is J-shaped, navigating jumps and gates and grabbing rings. Competitors’ runs are timed, and the fastest get glory and prizes.
Skijoring the Big Rock divides teams into multiple categories, including snowboard, switcharoo, century and 4D. “Skijoring is fun for all ages,” said Melissa Ostrander, secretary and treasurer of the Boulder Valley Skijoring Association. “We have competition for the juniors and beginners with an easier course to navigate. And for serious skiers and riders, the course is more difficult and it is the teamwork of rider, horse and skier working together to successfully pull off the fastest time.
