HEBER CITY, Utah – A unique winter sports spectacle is set to make its debut in Heber City as North America's first professional skijoring league kicks off its inaugural Frontier Tour on January 16 and 17. The event will take place at the Wasatch County Events Center rodeo arena, drawing athletes and spectators alike to experience the thrilling sport that combines skiing and horse racing in an exhilarating manner. Skijoring, which originated from the Norwegian word "skikjøring," meaning "ski driving," involves skiers being pulled by horses through a snow-packed obstacle course filled with jumps, gates, and freestyle elements. The sport has deep roots in Western heritage, and its inclusion in the Frontier Tour aims to honor that tradition while bringing it to a contemporary audience. Each stop on the tour will transform local fairgrounds and arenas into dynamic courses designed to test the skills of both horse and rider. "Heber City is a natural fit for this series," said Brian Gardner, co-founder of PRO Skijor, the organization behind the event. Gardner emphasized Utah's rich ski culture and Western roots, making the location ideal for showcasing skijoring at a professional level. His sentiments were echoed by co-founder Joe Loveridge, who remarked, "It’s rodeo energy meets ski-town attitude, and we’re excited to bring that experience to Heber City fans." The kickoff competition in Heber City promises a vibrant atmosphere filled with elite and amateur racing, live music, and local food vendors, ensuring a family-friendly experience for all attendees. The main competitive divisions will include Pro-Open, Sport, Women’s, Snowboard, and All-Around categories. In addition, there will be participation-focused divisions such as Novice, Century, Teen, and Lil’ Buckaroo & Ponies Only, catering to skijoring enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. Local businesses and food vendors are also gearing up for the event, recognizing the potential economic boost it could bring to the community. According to local business owner Sarah Jenkins, "Events like these are great for showcasing what Heber City has to offer. We’re excited to welcome visitors and show them our local flavors and hospitality." The Frontier Tour will not only spotlight competitive skijoring but also create a sense of community and regional pride. The event is expected to attract participants and spectators from surrounding states, further enhancing the visibility of Heber City as a winter sports destination. The excitement will continue throughout the season, culminating in a championship weekend in Salt Lake City, where top teams from across the circuit will vie for championship titles and a significant cash purse. The full schedule of the 2026 PRO Skijor Frontier Tour includes stops not only in Heber City but also in Bozeman, MT; Logan, UT; Boise, ID; and Driggs, ID, before concluding with the championship weekend at the Utah State Fairpark in Salt Lake City. Each event will provide a unique experience, with local flair and the spirit of competition. The following dates mark the complete schedule for the Frontier Tour: - Heber City, UT — Wasatch Events Center | January 16–17 - Bozeman, MT — Gallatin County Fairgrounds | January 24–25 - Logan, UT — Cache County Fairgrounds | January 30–31 - Boise, ID — Ford Idaho Center | February 6–7 - Driggs, ID — Teton County Fairgrounds | February 21–22 - Championship Weekend — Utah State Fairpark, Salt Lake City, UT | February 27–28 Tickets for all events in the Frontier Tour are available for purchase at PROSkijor.com. Fans are encouraged to follow @PROSkijor across social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for updates on events, athlete announcements, and additional information. As Heber City prepares to host the Frontier Tour, the anticipation is palpable. The combination of adrenaline, skill, and community spirit promises to make this event a memorable one, not just for participants but for all who come to witness this exciting new chapter in winter sports. The successful launch of the Frontier Tour could potentially pave the way for further professional skijoring events in the future, establishing a new tradition in the heart of Utah's winter landscape.