STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® Celebrates Record-Breaking Achievements at the 2026 U.S. Championships

A Weekend of Spectacular Competition at 2026 U.S. Championships

STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® returned to the vibrant atmosphere of German Fest in Milwaukee for an unforgettable weekend filled with elite athleticism and fierce competition. This year, the thrilling events showcased not just remarkable talent but also record-setting cuts, ultimately crowning the U.S. champions in lumberjack sports.

Rising Stars and Record-Breaking Cuts

The competition featured three intense days, starting with the Hot Saw Showdown on Friday, followed by the Women's Championship on Saturday, and wrapping up with the Men's Championship on Sunday. As the excitement built, three champions emerged from a field of the nation’s best lumberjacks and lumberjills, eager to prove their skills in this challenging sport, which demands speed, precision, and resilience.

Friday's Electrifying Hot Saw Showdown

Kicking off the series of events, the Hot Saw Showdown brought a new element of thrill as it was held at the U.S. Championships for the first time. Participants were eager to show their abilities in this high-speed discipline, and reigning U.S. Men's Champion Nate Hodges set a fast pace with a remarkable 4.70-second run during the Time Trials. However, fortunes shifted dramatically as he faced disqualification in the semifinals, creating new opportunities for other competitors.

Josh Wilson seized the moment and dazzled the spectators with impressive performances, eventually clinching his first national title after a stunning final cut. "Hot Saw is one of those disciplines where there's no room for error," Wilson remarked, expressing his delight at his first victory on this significant stage.

A Fierce Battle Among the Women

Saturday's U.S. Women's Championship showcased women's tremendous skills across four disciplines. With breathtaking performances, Kathryn Witkowski set a new world record in the Single Buck event, while Lauren Bergman broke the Standing Block Chop national record. The competition remained tense as Martha King and Erin LaVoie navigated closely to the top. Ultimately, King’s consistency and superb performances allowed her to retain the championship title, emphasizing her prowess in this demanding sport.

"Every athlete here had the capability of winning, and staying focused was essential," King noted after her significant win.

Sunday's Showdown Among Men

The competition culminated on Sunday as the top 16 lumberjacks gathered to compete in six grueling disciplines. Spectators were treated to a rollercoaster of excitement with Matt Cogar emerging as the top contender. His performance was characterized by remarkable speed in the Underhand Chop and Standing Block Chop events. Each event saw shifts in momentum, with defending champion Nate Hodges also making a strong bid for the title.

Ultimately, it was Cogar's consistent performances across the board that led him to secure his eighth U.S. Men's Championship title. He shared his thoughts post-victory, highlighting the efforts he put in to reach this milestone. "It's a moment I'll be proud of for a long time."

Looking Ahead: Team USA's Next Challenge

With the conclusion of the championship events, Team USA is gearing up for the STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® World Championship later this year in Stuttgart, Germany. Athletes will compete among the best globally, further fueling their drive to represent the nation proudly. Matt Cogar, now an eight-time champion, will aim for glory in the Individual World Championship, while the team will also compete in a high-stakes relay event.

Fans can experience the thrill of STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® by watching future events live, accessible through the organization’s official website and social media platforms. The energy, the records, and the passionate competitors at this year's championships have set the stage for a promising future for the sport.

STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® continues to foster an appreciation for lumberjack sports, showcasing the intricate skills of cutting, chopping, and sawing in thrilling competitions. This year’s championship has left a lasting impression, reflected in the celebrations of the new champions and record-breaking performances.