WESTBY, Wis. (WKBT) — For more than a century, skiers from across the region have traveled to Westby to take on one of the Midwest’s most storied hills — and every year, it’s the roaring hometown crowd that keeps them coming back.
The annual ski jumping tournament, ran by volunteers from the Westby Ski and Golf Club, brings together competitors, families, and fans to celebrate winter and community pride. Westby’s Snow Queen, Adey Oliver, said the excitement of the event is what makes it special.
“I’ve talked to a few of the ski jumpers and they say Westby is their favorite tournament because of the crowd — and they definitely show up,” Oliver says.
The competition is based on skill and precision, with judges scoring each athlete on their flight, landing, and smooth finish down the hill. McKenna Keuler, this year’s Miss Snowflake, explains the process that determines who takes home the top honors.
“It’s three phases: the flight, the landing, and the outrun,” Keuler says.
While the athletes focus on form, spectators gather for the thrill of it all — braving the cold just to watch jumpers soar through the air.
“They’re flying through the air off a hill!” says fan Brian Leas.
“It’s so crazy that they’re just hovering above the hill, in that position, on this huge hill that is just terrifying,” Oliver added.
Beyond the action, the weekend brings residents and visitors together around bonfires and food stands.
“Just the excitement and the crowd — being around everybody having fun,” says Mia Rudie.
“If you wanna have fun on a cold day, stand by the fire, have a few drinks and watch people jump down the hill,” added Jack Nelson, another longtime fan.
The festivities continue through Saturday with free children’s activities and more ski action.
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