The lumberjacks will be chucking, choking and climbing Sept. 6 at the Amphitheater in Transfer Beach Park.
And as a special treat, chain saw carver Dan Richey will be transforming the log skids on the steam donkey at Transfer Beach Boulevard and Oyster Bay Road into a work of art.
The loggers sports begin at 4 p.m. with the ‘usual’ selection of events, including pole climbing, axe throwing, choker racing and spring board chopping.
“It promises to be a great time for all members of the family,” says a release.
“It’s been a few years since the Loggers Sports has been held in Ladysmith and the organizers are hoping for a great crowd,” Kinsman and Ladysmith Councillor Duck Paterson said.
“We hope that the crowd enjoys it as we would really like to make this a bigger event for next year.”
If Ladysmith proves to be a supportive venue, it could become part of an Island circuit that includes Campbell River, Port Alberni and Nanaimo.
“It is hoped that the word of what a great venue Ladysmith is for loggers sports will attract a larger field of competitors which makes for a really amazing, fast paced show,” Paterson said.
Admission is by donation, this year’s event being a fund-raiser for the Cops For Cancer Tour de Rock.
All the money raised will go to Camp Goodtimes, which provides recreational experiences for children with cancer and their families.
Volunteer fire fighters will be cooking hot dogs and serving drinks, and there will be a 50/50 draw.
“People are encouraged to get to Transfer Beach and bring a blanket or lawn chair and be ready to have a good time,” Paterson said.
Richey will start his carving earlier in the day. “The public are more than welcome to go down and watch Dan do his chain saw carving,” Paterson said.
Based out of Nanaimo, Richey is an artist of all trades, doing everything from themed murals on vehicles to festive art on your storefronts.
“However, he prides himself on his large chain saw carvings,” Paterson said. “One look at Dan in action and you can tell his heart and soul are in every piece he completes.