Skijor Bangor Competition Thrills Crowds in Maine

Over 40 teams of skiers, riders, and horses raced through obstacles in the sixth annual winter event.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 4:55pm

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The sixth annual Skijor Bangor competition took place at the Bangor Fairgrounds in Maine, drawing a crowd of horseback riders, skiers, and spectators. The unique winter sport features teams of three - a rider, a horse, and a skier being pulled behind - racing against the clock while navigating jumps and grabbing rings. More than 40 teams competed in this year's event, representing a wide range of ages and experience levels.

Why it matters

Skijoring offers an exciting way for thrill-seekers to stay active during the winter months in Maine, adding something to look forward to in the colder, darker season. The event also serves as the first stop in the Maine Skijor Triple Crown circuit.

The details

Participants said the sport provides an adrenaline rush and a chance to put on a show for spectators, despite the inherent risks. The pro division was won by skier John Krasnavage, pulled by rider Mel Merchant and horse Belle, while the novice division was won by skier Kevin Kimball, rider Caitlin Rice, and horse LeeRoy James. Organizer Jodi MacGregor noted that the event takes a team of 45 volunteers to put on, but the exhilaration of the races makes the effort worthwhile.

  • The sixth annual Skijor Bangor competition took place on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
  • The next stop on the Maine Skijor Triple Crown circuit is Skijor Topsham, scheduled for Saturday, February 7, 2026.
  • The final race in the Triple Crown will be held in Skowhegan on February 21, 2026.

The players

John Krasnavage

The winning skier in the pro division of the Skijor Bangor competition, pulled by rider Mel Merchant and horse Belle.

Kevin Kimball

The winning skier in the novice division of the Skijor Bangor competition, pulled by rider Caitlin Rice and horse LeeRoy James.

Jodi MacGregor

The organizer of the Skijor Bangor event, which requires a team of 45 volunteers to put on.

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What they’re saying

“The adrenaline rush and putting on a good show for the spectators make it worth the risk.”

— Clarence Grant, 63-year-old skier

“It makes you look forward to winter a little more. Winters can be tough with the snow, and it gets dark early, so this really makes them more enjoyable.”

— Brighton Sawyer, Rider

“This time of year, they're ready to get outside and do something different. They like the thrill when they go over the jumps. It's exhilarating”

— Jodi MacGregor, Organizer

What’s next

The next stop on the Maine Skijor Triple Crown circuit is Skijor Topsham, scheduled for Saturday, February 7, 2026.

The takeaway

Skijoring provides an exciting and adrenaline-fueled way for Mainers to stay active and embrace the winter season, offering a unique blend of equestrian racing and skiing that draws crowds and competitors alike to events like the Skijor Bangor competition.