both ways.” Similarly, Dan Eckert of Wolcott, Colorado says, “The rider’s ability must match that of the horse, and they must communicate well.” Find a strong skier who works well behind the horse and rider, and you have a winning combination!
For more information on Skijor USA, go to
www.skijorusa.com and for information on the
global history of skijoring go to
To view Mark LaRowe’s work, go to
www.marklarowe.photoshelter.com
For example, Skijor USA is the
first organization to ask
competitors to nominate teams
and qualify within regions to
vie for a title at a year-end
National Championship Final in
West Yellowstone, Montana. In
2019, Skijor USA also
introduced a 3D race format
using time splits to determine
divisions and placements much
like barrel racing. “Consistency,
fairness and safety are
paramount in order for the
sport to grow and thrive,”
Zhimanskova and LaRowe
agree.
Many ask, what makes a great
skijoring horse? Richard
Raymer of Saratoga, Wyoming
says his #1 criteria for a
skijoring horse is control. “You
can have the fastest horse
around, but if you can’t get him
to the start, it does no good.” #2
is manners, and #3 is speed.
Richard recently bought a horse
named Cage that fits the bill
perfectly, but he is also about
to train two three year old
mustangs this summer!
Corie Downey of Whitehall,
Montana says trust is number
one. Then heart. Then
confirmation. She believes if
you have all three of these,
speed will come, but “MOST
IMPORTANTLY, trust has to go