Hayward, WI. (May 21, 2025) –   

The 65th Annual Lumberjack World Championships® is set to make history this summer in Hayward, Wisconsin, as it welcomes the largest field of female competitors the event has ever seen. In a landmark year for the storied competition, 46 professional women will take to the stage to showcase their strength, skill, and spirit in events traditionally dominated by men. 

This milestone reflects a growing trend in competitive lumberjack sports, where female athletes are carving out their place and inspiring new generations. From chopping and sawing to logrolling and boom running, women will compete at elite levels in events that test balance, precision, and raw power. 

“This is more than just a milestone — it’s a moment of evolution for the sport,” said Sam LaSalle, Executive Director of the Lumberjack World Championships. “We’ve watched women’s participation steadily grow over the years, and this year, the numbers speak for themselves. These athletes are powerful, precise, and deserve the spotlight.”  

This record-breaking turnout of 46 competitors includes regular top performers like Livi Pappadopoulo, Erin LaVoie and Hanna Quigley as well as a field of new names like Karolina Urbanová and Andrea Hand. A full list of competitors will be released in the coming weeks. 

Founded in 1960, the Lumberjack World Championships has become a beloved tradition in the Wisconsin Northwoods, drawing top athletes from around the globe and tens of thousands of fans to the historic Lumberjack Bowl on the shores of Lake Hayward. This year’s competition, scheduled for July 16-19, promises a high-energy atmosphere filled with thrilling action and meaningful milestones. 

Athletes compete in a combined twenty-four events, including, logrolling, boom running, sawing, chopping, axe throwing, and speed climbing. Information on each unique timber sports discipline is available at https://lumberjackworldchampionships.com/ 

Tickets are now available at lumberjackworldchampionships.com 

“We’re looking forward to another incredible three days of competition,” said Event Director Samantha LaSalle. “From the festival grounds experience, the food trucks, Swingin’ Axe beer garden, music from the Pinery boys, our Wednesday concert kickoff with Chris Kroeze and not to mention the amazing performance from our athletes, the Lumberjack World Championships offer an experience the whole family can enjoy.”  

For additional details contact the LWC Event Director Samantha LaSalle at 715-699-0712 

Photos for use with this press release can be found in this Google Drive folder. Please credit “Photo Courtesy of Lumberjack World Championships”  

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