Bedford County hosts PA State Lumberjack Championships

BEDFORD COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) -- Bedford County hosts usual sporting events like football and basketball through the local high schools. This weekend, however, Bedford welcomed people from all over the world for a beloved sport.

This weekend showcased a sport enjoyed by the townsfolk: Timber Sports.

Athletes from across 35 states and international players from Australia and the Czech Republic traveled to Camp Living Waters in Schellsburg, looking to be crowned the Pa. State Lumberjack Champion.

"It's one of the best shows in the country every year," said Zachary Brouse, founder of the weekend-long tournament.

It first started nine years ago, with Brouse looking to lift up Bedford County. After five years competing on the road, he decided to bring something back to his community.

"I was ready to bring [a timber sports competition] back to our community to showcase in our area for the folks here in Central Pennsylvania," Brouse said. "It's a very blue collar area and it's pretty close to the roots."

Residents from Bedford show out for the event each year. Some even decide to stake it out close to the competit...