On the average Friday night or weekend morning, most Powell River residents would likely consider the continuous roar of a chainsaw as a rather irritating or disruptive intrusion.
But that indelible sound will be music to the ears of thousands of Powell River Logger Sports fans who pass through the gates at Loggers Memorial Bowl at Willingdon Beach from Friday, July 13, to Sunday, July 15.
The three-day event features male and female competitors from across Canada, throughout North America and around the world. In addition to thrilling a throng of spectators with their expertise and abilities, novice, intermediate and veteran entrants will compete for Canadian and world championships in multiple categories against the best the sport has to offer.
And don’t forget about the always popular kids’ events on Friday. Who knows who the next emerging star will be?
The iconic image of the lumberjack is endearing to all British Columbians.
Everyone involved this weekend, whether as a competitor or fan, adds to the legacy of an industry that helped build our province.
2018 Powell River Logger Sports schedule
Powell River Logger Sports entrants compete in the following events:
Underhand Chop
Strength is an important factor in determining the winner of this event, but technique comes into play as well. Standing on footholds cut into an anchored block, competitors chop halfway through the block before turning around to complete the chopping from the other side.
Chair carving
Using only a chainsaw and one piece of wood, competitors carve out the best chair they can produce within a time frame of four minutes. Judges determine a winner based on appearance. Artistry and speed are important factors in this event.
Relay
Consisting of one female, two novices/intermediates and one open competitor, each team displays its proficiency using axes, chokers, chainsaws and crosscut saws to complete multiple challenges. While strength and determination come into play in all areas, overall speed determines the winner.
Axe throw
Standing 20 feet from a 36-inch target placed five feet off the ground, competitors throw a double-bladed axe four times each; the top three results are added for a total score. A bullseye earns a maximum five points with values decreasing incrementally to one point throughout the outer rings. If the axe sticks, it counts.
Chokerman’s race
In this physically demanding race, competitors run through an obstacle course carrying a 34-kilogram, eight-metre-long choker. The choker must be set to a log before racers return to the start line as quickly as possible.
Tree climb
This physically demanding and strenuous event features climbers ascending an 80-foot pole using a rope and spurs before quickly descending back down before their opponent reaches the bottom. Top-notch competitors complete this exciting event in 20 seconds or less.
Hand bucking
Classes of hand bucking include single, double and Jack and Jill. Competitors use a crosscut saw to cut through a log as fast as possible. Assistance is provided by using lubricant on the saw and pressing a wedge into the top of the cut.
Obstacle Pole
In a timed event, competitors’ skills are tested as they run with their chainsaws along a log fixed at an angle. At the other end, after starting their saws, matching cuts are placed into each side of the log until a piece comes off. Competitors then shut down their saws and race back to the other end.
Husky Challenge
While using a chainsaw under 100cc, competitors use their strength and knowledge to cut three pieces off the end of an 18-inch log.
Springboard Chop
Classes of springboard include two boards, four boards and two person. Competitors cut two notches into one side of a tree. Once the board has been set, intermediate competitors climb on and chop halfway through the tree, then turn and chop through the rest of the way. Open-class competitors climb down at the halfway point and repeat the whole process on the other side of the tree until the block falls.
Hot Saw
Using a high-performance saw with a maximum 140cc, competitors cut a large block with two cuts, one above and one below. Regulations for this loud event allow for some modifications to the saws.
100cc PNE Cut
Competitors precisely cut three pieces off the end of an 18-inch log, within six inches of each other, using a 100cc chainsaw.
