Karolina Urbanova, a 24-year-old Czech competitor, carved her name into lumberjack history by setting two new women’s world records in speed chopping events at the recent World Lumberjack Games. Her feats promise to inspire growing participation of women in this tough, traditionally male-dominated sport.
- Set new world records in Underhand Chop and Standing Block events
- One of 40 female competitors at the 66th Lumberjack World Championships
- Growing female participation in a traditionally male-dominated sport
What happened
At the 66th annual Lumberjack World Championships in Hayward, Wisconsin, Karolina Urbanova made history by breaking two women’s speed chopping records. She felled an 11-inch white pine log between her legs in just over 21 seconds, surpassing the previous mark by nearly three seconds. She also chopped through a standing log segment in an astonishing 19.38 seconds, setting a record for that classic lumberjack event.
Urbanova was among 40 women competitors, known as Lumberjills, who showcased their skills alongside 66 men in the internationally recognized competition. This event attracts timber sports athletes from around the globe, testing a demanding blend of balance, dexterity, and raw strength.
Why it feels good
Karolina’s achievement represents much more than a new record; it highlights the expanding presence of women in a sport traditionally dominated by men, especially in Europe where timber sports have limited participation. Growing up in a small Czech village, Karolina’s discovery of the sport alongside her mother and sister marked the beginning of a trailblazing journey for female competitors in Europe.
Her success reflects the rising standards and competitiveness among women in timber sports worldwide. The addition of events such as the Standing Block for women only came as recently as 2022, signaling a shift toward greater inclusion and recognition. Karolina’s pride and determination capture the spirit of this evolving sport and its expanding community.
What to enjoy or watch next
Following the World Championships, timber sports enthusiasts can look forward to more global competitions as the sport gains momentum, especially for women who continue to push boundaries and set new records. Events like logrolling and speed trunk climbing offer various ways to appreciate the athleticism required beyond chopping alone.
Watching Karolina Urbanova’s continued career offers a front-row seat to the growth of women’s timber sports. Her international travels and competitive spirit underline the sport’s expanding global reach, encouraging new athletes to try their hand at this centuries-old but still thrilling competition.