Skijoring, a high-speed winter sport that combines skiing with horseback riding, is set to kick off in Heber, Utah, attracting adrenaline junkies from across the state. Co-founder Joe Loveridge, a former Utah ski patroller, brought the sport to Utah nearly a decade ago after being inspired by an event in Montana. Skijoring involves a skier being pulled by a horse and rider through a snow-packed course, reaching speeds of up to 55 miles per hour.

The sport draws in a mix of cowboys, cowgirls, and ski racers, all pushing the limits of control and endurance. Skijoring has roots in Northern Europe as a mode of transportation and even appeared as an exhibition sport in the 1928 Winter Olympics in Switzerland. Despite its extreme nature, skijoring is open to participants of all backgrounds, with Loveridge emphasizing that expertise is not required to participate.

Skijoring in Utah is described as “rodeo on skis” and is seen as a perfect blend of two passions for competitors like Jackie Nedal, who enjoys the combination of horses and skiing. The sport is a unique and thrilling experience that brings together individuals from different backgrounds, creating an exciting and inclusive atmosphere for all participants.