Skijoring returns this weekend

It’s a competition that pairs horse and rider along with skier being pulled around a course on snow.

The World Invitational Whitefish Ski Joring races return to Whitefish this weekend.

“It’s going to be another beautiful event in a beautiful location,” Mike Righetti. “We expect another great event with big jumps.”

Skijoring is a traditional Whitefish Winter Carnival event that combines the old West with the new. Skiers pulled by a horse and rider are challenged to slalom through gates and hit jumps. The duo with the fastest time wins. Thousands of spectators line the course to cheer on teams.

There are three divisions — open, sport and novice. In past years there have been between 75 and 100 teams competing.

The past two years the course has differed on Saturday and Sunday, but this year the course will be a horseshoe shape on both days. Professional rodeo announcer Joe Warner will again be announcing the action.

“It’s better for spectators,” Righetti said. “They can see most of the course from one place and see what the whole race looks like.”

A new committee this year has taken over running the skijoring event. Along with Righetti, committee members include Ron Behrendt, Barb Staaland, Carlene Casey Moes and Vern Kiser.

Damages done to the Whitefish Airport runway during last year’s event forced its closure last summer while repairs were made.

“We have an all new committee,” Righetti said. “We’re committed to the health of the spectators, the health of the competitors and the health of the facility.”

Registration for the races is Friday from 6-9 p.m. at Grouse Mountain Lodge.

The action takes place Saturday and Sunday at the city airport off East Second Street, with an opening ceremony at 11:30 a.m. and the racing at noon both days.

A Calcutta on Saturday is at Casey’s at 7 p.m. This is a chance to bid on teams for Sunday’s event. An awards ceremony is Sunday at the Remington Bar at 6 p.m.

Spectators are asked to take a shuttle from the Whitefish High School north parking lot. Buses will run beginning at 10 a.m. until the event is over. There is a $5 entry fee for adults, children 12 and under are free. Vendors will offer food and beverages.

In the past the event has often started late, but Righetti said the new committee is committed to starting on time. He is encouraging folks to arrive at the high school an hour before the start time.

A percentage of the Calcutta money will go to Kristen House to assist with her daughter’s medical concerns that require travel out of state.

Competitors will be allowed to park in the lot at the WAG dog park. Those wanting to access the dog park during the event will need to use the parking lot at the Roy Duff Memorial Armory.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the event. Contact Mike Righetti at 253-9911 or any of the committee members to sign-up.

Visit www.whitefishskijoring.com for more information.