This competition started in 2011 by Scott Berk and Erik Person of Norway, Maine. Much like the North American Wife Carrying Championship, it will be run over an obstacle course that is approximately 253 meters (278 yards). The course begins with three rollers made out of snow, followed by a slalom course, whaleback, and lastly a mogul field. Teams cannot advance on the course if the carried partner is drop. He or she must be mounted properly before continuing on, or they will be disqualified from the competition.

The only equipment that will be allowed during the competition will be a belt worn by the carrier to give the partner something to grasp, helmet & goggles (required), and obviously, snowshoes. If you don’t have snowshoes, we will provide you with some. Several different carrying techniques have been used successfully, including the “piggy-back”, the “fireman’s carry”, the “Estonian carry.” Any carrying technique that keeps the partner from touching the ground is permissible.

The race will run in heats with two teams racing at one time. The two teams with the fastest times (not necessarily the winners in each heat) will qualify for the championship round. The winner of the championship round will be declared the Wife Carrying Snowshoe World Champion.

Prizes will be given to the top 3 teams, as well as the fastest team with a combined age over 80, and the fastest team with a combined weight over 350 lbs. Contestants need not be related but must be over the age of 21. A maximum of 50 teams will be allowed to compete.

The day also includes a tailgate party in the Barker parking lot, complete with live music, prizes for best tailgate, and more.

Find out more about the North American Wife Carrying Championship here. The 20th Annual Event will be held on October 12, 2019.