Precision and power are the skills necessary to win the Timber Hard Hit competition, and today's finals featured two of the world's most powerful and skilled axemen. David Bolstadt, of New Zealand, defeated Australian Jason Wynard to take the Great Outdoor Games gold. The technique, however, is difficult. A lot of thought goes in to each swing, and you need to have very good accuracy.
Power definitely helps too.
When you look at both competitors it's clear that power is extremely important. Both men are large and muscular, with builds that resemble that of an NFL linebacker. During the event two athletes take the stage simultaneously, each alternating chops. They trade blows like heavyweight boxers, which makes for an exciting competition, but according to Wynard, it can creates some unique problems for the competitors. You can't be worried about what the next guy is doing, because you're not really trying to beat out the guy next to you.