The 2026 Council Loggers Jubilee brought another unforgettable day of competition, laughter, and hometown pride. From the roar of saws to the cheers around the tug-of-war pit, this year’s Jubilee proved once again why it remains one of Council’s most cherished traditions.
The Youth Wood Split is always one of the most heartwarming events of the Jubilee, showcasing the next generation of competitors who bring just as much determination and excitement as the adults. This year’s young participants stepped up in a big way.
1st place went to Clayton Costa, earning the $100 cash prize with a focused, confident performance that impressed everyone watching. 2nd place was claimed by Darius McAlvain, who took home $75 after delivering a strong and steady showing. 3rd place went to Gavin Ryals, whose grit and enthusiasm earned him the $50 prize and big cheers from the crowd. Their efforts reminded everyone that the future of the Jubilee is bright — and full of talent.
The Choker Setting Race drew one of the biggest crowds of the day, and the competition was fierce from start to finish. Cody Champion claimed 1st place, delivering a powerhouse performance that had spectators cheering him on every step of the way. In addition to his cash prize, Cody will be receiving a brand-new Prison Blues coat, generously donated by Prison Blues. Their support added a special highlight to this year’s Jubilee — a meaningful nod to the hardworking competitors who embody the spirit of logging tradition.
2nd place went to Clayton Dahl, whose speed and precision kept the race tight, and 3rd place was awarded to Owen Hatfield, who rounded out the podium with a strong finish in a highly competitive field.
The Jack & Jill Team Event was one of the most spirited competitions of the day, filled with teamwork, grit, and plenty of good-natured rivalry.
1st place went to TJ Bookkeeping Team — Trina Jokela, Cody Shelton, and Tyler Shelton. As cousins who return to compete together every year, they have a mix of family chemistry, friendly rivalry, and sheer determination that has earned them a well‑deserved first‑place finish and kept their family tradition proudly alive.
2nd place was earned by Ryan & Kylee Hatfield alongside Rob Derby, a strong and coordinated trio whose smooth, fast run kept them firmly in the top tier. Their teamwork and consistency made them one of the standout groups of the event.
3rd place went to Chance Smith, Tiona Smith, and Richy Goforth, who rounded out the podium with an impressive finish.
The Medium Saw competition is one of the Jubilee’s signature events — a true test of strength, control, and technical skill. Competitors train for this moment, and the crowd always packs tightly to watch every cut. The Medium Saw competition once again proved to be one of the Jubilee’s most thrilling events — a showcase of talent that keeps spectators coming back year after year.
This year, Ryan Hatfield delivered a commanding performance, earning 1st place, a brand-new saw, and a cash prize. His speed and accuracy set the bar high.
2nd place went to Graham Collins, whose steady technique and clean cuts earned him well-deserved recognition and a cash award. 3rd place was claimed by Bobbie Costa, who powered through the event with determination and skill, securing a cash prize and a strong finish.
The Large Saw competition is the crown jewel of the Jubilee — the event everyone talks about, trains for, and gathers around. The roar of the saws, the intensity of the competitors, and the sheer power on display make it the highlight of the day. The Large Saw competition continues to be the heartbeat of the Jubilee — a celebration of skill, tradition, and the logging heritage that defines Council.
Ryan Hatfield dominated the field, earning 1st place, another brand-new saw, and a cash prize. His performance demonstrated both strength and finesse. Ryan’s back-to-back wins in the Medium and Large Saw events cemented his status as one of the Jubilee’s top competitors for 2026.
2nd place went to Rick Paradis, a crowd favorite, whose strong showing and consistent pace earned him a cash prize and loud cheers from the doting crowd. 3rd place was awarded to Eddie Starley, who delivered a solid, focused run that secured his place on the podium.
The Log Birling event was pure fun from start to finish. Clayton Costa took home the win, but the real highlight was the laughter, splashes, and friendly competition that kept spectators entertained. This was the first year for this event, and it proved to be a competitor’s favorite.
The Adult Team Tug of War was one of the most intense and physically demanding events of the day. Teams dug in with everything they had — muscles straining, heels carving trenches into the dirt, and strategy playing just as big a role as strength.
At one point, several competitors kicked off their shoes entirely, digging their toes straight into the dirt for better traction. The crowd roared as teams leaned back, faces red with effort, refusing to give an inch. It was raw, gritty competition at its finest.
In the end, Rob Derby led his team to a hard‑fought 1st place victory, earning the $1,000 prize and plenty of bragging rights for the year ahead. Their determination and teamwork made this one of the most exciting finishes of the Jubilee.
Cash Awards Presented
Large Saw: 1st – $300 | 2nd – $200
Medium Saw: 1st – $300 | 2nd – $200
Youth Wood Split: 1st – $100 | 2nd – $75 | 3rd – $50
Jack & Jill Team Event: 1st – $600 | 2nd – $300 | 3rd – $150
Adult Team Tug of War: 1st – $1,000
The Council Loggers Jubilee thrives because of the dedication, leadership, and countless hours invested by its board members. This year’s board — President Trina Jokela, Vice President Sandra Ward, Treasurer Tana Freedman, Secretary Hannah Combs, City Liaison Gabe Wilson, and Event Coordinators Clayton Dahl & Odin Freedman — worked tirelessly to plan, organize, and execute every detail of the event.
From coordinating competitors and sponsors to managing logistics, safety, and community outreach, the board’s commitment ensures the Jubilee remains a well-run, welcoming, and deeply meaningful tradition for Council. Their behind-the-scenes work is the backbone of this event, and the community is grateful for their dedication.
A heartfelt thank‑you goes out to every volunteer, sponsor, and community member who contributed their time, energy, and support. Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Jubilee — the ones who set up equipment, run event stations, keep things moving smoothly, and make sure every competitor and spectator feels welcome. Their generosity and hard work are what allow the Jubilee to grow and thrive year after year.
With another successful Jubilee in the books, Council looks forward to welcoming everyone back in 2027 for more competition, celebration, and hometown pride.
“Every year I’m reminded how lucky we are to live in a community that shows up the way Council does. The heart, the hard work, and the willingness to pitch in wherever needed is what makes the Jubilee possible. I’m proud of what we accomplished together this year.” Trina Jokela.
