Hayward Hosts Record-Breaking Lumberjack World Championships

New Women’s World Records Shatter Timber Sport Limits

Three women set new world marks at the three‑day Lumberjack World Championships in Hayward, Wis., which wrapped up on Saturday. Czech competitor Karolina Urbanová triumphed in both the Underhand Chop and the Standing Chop, slicing through an 11‑inch (27.9 cm) white pine in 21.28 seconds and a 9‑inch (22.8 cm) pine in 19.38 seconds. Meanwhile, local athlete Meredith Ingbretson dominated the Women’s Boom Run, sprinting across eight red‑cedar logs in a blistering 13.78 seconds. The event drew 66 men and 40 women representing 16 states and nine countries, underscoring the growing reach of timber sports.

Women’s Competition Evolves Over Six Decades

Women first entered the sport in 1960, when log‑rolling was the only discipline available. Today, more than 20 timber events are contested, reflecting a dramatic expansion of the program. Nancy Zalewski, a 27‑year participant, has mentored competitors such as Kate Witkowski, helping to pass on the specialized skills required for modern lumberjack events. The tradition dates back to the 1890s, and the competition is held in the historic Lumberjack Bowl on Lake Hayward, once a holding pond for log drives down the Namekagon River.

Competitors invest heavily in gear; custom chain saws, finely sharpened axes and single‑buck saws can cost upwards of $400 just to maintain. This financial commitment adds to the tight‑knit nature of the community, where athletes share resources and advice to stay competitive.

A Vibrant Community Celebrates Timber Sports

The atmosphere is filled with colorful attire: children appear in lumberjack socks, flannels and suspenders, while sponsors hand out inflatable axes and toy chain saws. Outside the main arena, wood‑carving demonstrations, kids’ log‑rolling practice, live music, food trucks and axe‑themed activities create a festive ground. “The culture of it I think is really wonderful,” said Witkowski, noting how athletes support each other in a niche where equipment is both rare and expensive.

Looking Ahead for the Future of Lumberjack Sports

These record‑setting performances highlight the rapid growth of women’s involvement and the sport’s broader appeal. Organizers anticipate more international participation as the events gain visibility and new generations discover the physical skill and tradition behind timber sports. Continued investment in gear and training is likely, helping sustain the community’s unique blend of competition and camaraderie for years to come.