A Skijoring Journey

For most people, standing atop an Olympic podium is the accomplishment of a lifetime. To do it alongside two of your countrymen? A dream come true. But what if it meant nothing, your achievement destined to be an odd trivia fact? That was the reality of the three Swiss athletes who medaled in skijoring during the 1928 Olympics.

During the 1928 Winter Olympics in St. Moritz, Switzerland, the Swiss officials chose skijoring as their ‘demonstration sport. These demonstration sports (temporary events) are not a part of standard medal competition. Instead, they provide an opportunity for the host nation to showcase sports that are unique to their culture. For a handful of Swiss skijoring enthusiasts, an attractive opportunity had presented itself. 

Originating as a form of transportation for military personnel in Sweden and Norway during the winter – skijoring evolved into a sport unlike any other. The event was held on a frozen lake and consisted of a race where athletes were each towed behind a horse while wearing a set of skis. Participants would hold onto reins that were connected to a harness placed on each horse and raced simultaneously.

The results were decided after a spirited, snowy competition and the top three finishers all represented the host nation of Switzerland.  

Skijoring may have never become an Olympic sport, and the medals won during its 1928 demonstration do not officially count, but it was the only Olympic experience its participants ever had. In a strange way, the story of skijoring perfectly captures the Olympic spirit. What matters is good faith competition and the love of sport, not medals or fame. From 1928 to 2022, that is one thing we can still look forward to.