Photo credit ©Seb LEON
SKIJORING
In a few words
A perfect mix between skiing and carriage driving, this discipline gets over the years an increasing number of adepts.
Skijoring is a sport in which a person on skis is pulled by one or more horses, on snow but also on other types of fields: grass, sand, racetrack... At first, this activity was developed in order to organize competitions. However, it is also possible to arrange walks or hikes.
There are 3 tests for Skijoring competitions
1. Giant or special slalom : horse and rider have to go through 8 to 12 gates (giant slalom) or through 12 to 15 gates (special slalom). The faster the speed, the higher the points the rider gets.
2. Speed test: performed on a straight line or a circle
3. Handling ability : the horse and his leader must pass a few difficulties (between 5 and 8)
Skijoring was born in the Nordics countries, but it can now be practiced everywhere by everyone, no matter how the whether is. Competitions exist for Poney and Club levels.
How to practice it ?
With the proper equid, skijoring is accessible from 6 years-old.
Poneys and horses suggested for this acitivity are shetlands for the younger children, bigger poneys or small horses for adults. However, all kind of poneys and horses can be used for skijoring. Saddle and draft horses can both be used for this sport.
For skijoring, the most important skill is not the speed and height. The most important is that the horse responds correctly to the voice and has been broken just like a normal plow horse.
For skijoring, the most important skill is not the speed and height. The most important is that the horse responds correctly to the voice and has been broken just like a normal plow horse.
Important /!\ skis must not exceed 1.70m long. If not, the horse could be bothered.
Discovering
skijoring
in video
We give you every detail
Requiered skills
for this discipline
5/5
For horses
Honest
Good pace
Calm
Responsive
Obedient
For riders
Good balance
Calm
Patient
Accuracy
Must like speed
Tests
Giant or special slalom
Speed test
Handling ability
