On the snow-capped peaks of the Alps, a lone figure glides effortlessly behind a galloping horse, carving tracks through the pristine white expanse. This is Jacques Fillietroz, a seasoned skijorer who has dedicated over 40 years to this exhilarating winter sport.
Skijoring, derived from the Norwegian word \"skikjøring\" meaning \"ski driving,\" is a unique blend of skiing and equestrianism. Participants on skis are pulled by horses, dogs, or even motor vehicles, racing across snow-covered landscapes. While it began as a practical means of winter transportation, skijoring has evolved into a competitive sport with enthusiasts participating in events worldwide.
For Jacques, the journey began decades ago when a simple postcard caught his eye. \"I saw a photo of someone being pulled on skis by a horse, and I knew I had to try it,\" he recalls with a twinkle in his eye. That moment ignited a lifelong passion that has taken him across continents and into the hearts of fellow skijoring aficionados.
We join Jacques on a crisp morning as he prepares his trusted horse, Belle, for a day's ride. The bond between man and beast is palpable; every motion is synchronized, every command understood. \"Trust is essential,\" Jacques explains. \"In skijoring, you're a team. The horse needs to feel your movements just as you need to anticipate theirs.\"
As they set off, the rush of cold air and the thrill of speed are intoxicating. The landscape whizzes by in a blur of white and evergreen, the silence of the mountains broken only by the rhythmic sound of hooves and skis on snow. It's a dance of grace and power, a testament to the harmony between human, animal, and nature.
Jacques's dedication to skijoring is more than just a personal pursuit; it's a mission to share the joy and heritage of the sport. He often hosts workshops and demonstrations, eager to introduce newcomers to this unique winter adventure. \"Skijoring is about freedom,\" he says. \"It's about connecting with the natural world in a way few other sports allow.\"
As the sun begins to set, casting a golden glow over the mountains, Jacques and Belle conclude their day's journey. Weary but exhilarated, they return home, leaving behind a trail etched in snow—a fleeting reminder of their passage that will soon be covered by fresh snowfall.
For those seeking an unforgettable winter experience, skijoring offers a blend of tradition, thrill, and connection. And for Jacques Fillietroz, every day on the snowy mountain is another page in his enduring tale—a tale of a cowboy at heart, forever chasing the horizon.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
