Colorado’s Wild West ‘Skijoring’ competition leaves many survivors

What do you get if you cross a holiday in Aspen with Wild West corporal punishment? Skijoring, the surprisingly old mix of cross-country skiing, rodeo, and high insurance premiums. The Colorado town of Leadville is the home to this peculiar tradition, which sees thrill-seekers put on skis and dragged by horse through an obstacle course in the street, in a competition to see who can stay alive the longest. The ‘Granddaddy of ‘em All’ competition has seen many survivors since its inception in 1949, and this year’s event was no different. Rider Savannah McCarthy, a nine-time champion, and skier Greg Dahl won this year’s event and lived after the traditional pancake breakfast. We like the idea of the pancakes, at least.