Lookout’s wife-carrying contest a big hit

Under normal circumstances it’s a major faux pas to ask someone’s weight. And many, when asked, might shave a few pounds off in the telling.

On Sunday at Lookout Pass that wasn’t the case. Women frantically shoved keys into their pockets, chugged beers and generally tried to weigh more.

All in preparation to stand on a scale in front of a crowd of strangers.

It was all for Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area’s annual wife-carrying contest. Men sprinted 100 feet over snow carrying their wives, partners – or in one case – ex-wife. The winner received the wife’s weight in cash. Second and third place winners received lesser amounts.

Plenty of contestants tumbled, although no one was hurt.

“Being upside down and seeing people fall was kind of intimidating,” said Jessica Medley. Medley and her husband Aaron took second place in the contest.

Justin Shipman and Megan Cox won the race.

“We did it last year and we lost,” Shipman said. “We learned from our mistakes.”

Cox and Shipman won $139.

Wife carrying originated in Finland in the 1800s. In the sport’s world championship competition, contestants run 253.5 meters while navigating obstacles. But, there is no snow.

Lookout distributed approximately $250 total to first, second and third place finishers.