Andrea Hand’s swift axe swing during the underhand chop competition at the Stihl Timbersports Canadian Championships caught the attention of host Ryan McIntyre on September 5. As the axe cleanly cut through the cottonwood block, McIntyre’s excitement was palpable, wondering if Hand had set a new world record in the women’s underhand chop category at the event held in London, Ont.
Completing the chop in 21.65 seconds, Hand’s performance was exceptional, leaving spectators in awe. After close inspection by the judges, the announcement came, confirming a new world record had been set. Hand, a two-time champion at the Stihl Timbersports Canadian Championships, surpassed the previous record set by American athlete Erin Lavoie earlier this year.
Hailing from Kaslo in B.C.’s West Kootenay region, the 40-year-old Hand clinched the Pro Women’s Championship title for the second consecutive year. Known for her rigorous training regimen, Hand dedicates significant time to honing her skills in timbersports events such as underhand chop, standing block chop, single buck, and stock saw. She emphasized the importance of her training routine and weightlifting, expressing her relentless drive for improvement.
With a family deeply rooted in the forestry industry, Hand’s background has played a significant role in her involvement in logger sports. Despite choosing a career as a paramedic over working in forestry, Hand’s exposure to logging activities inspired her to participate in competitive logger sports. Overcoming obstacles such as a serious snowmobiling accident in 2022, which resulted in severe injuries, Hand’s determination and resilience propelled her back to the top of her game.
Following her recent triumphs, including setting a world record and securing another national title, Hand intends to take a well-deserved break from her intense competition schedule. After years of non-stop international travel for the sport, she looks forward to a relaxing winter at home, enjoying the mountains and snowmobiling.
Andrea Hand’s remarkable achievements in the Stihl Timbersports Canadian Championships highlight her dedication, skill, and unwavering passion for logger sports.