Rugged Wench Competition Shows Girls Can Be Tough

CHIPPEWA BAY - Last year, Lynn Sprabary was named the 2009 Chippewa Bay Rugged Wench after completing a timed obstacle course consisting of log walking, tip-up setting, wood cutting, hammering, casting, target shooting, diaper changing and eventually, making a whip cream pie.

And she did it all wearing hip boots and carrying a doll in a backpack, according to Lisa J. Gallagher, event organizer, who says she got the idea for the competition while on vacation.

"I kind of based it on the Tough Women Competition in Talkeetna, Alaska," says Mrs. Gallagher of her version of the festivity, which she started in 2005.

Right now, according to Mrs. Gallagher, three competitors are needed for this year's event, which begins on Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Chippewa Bay Fish and Game Club, just prior to the annual corn roast.

"There are still three positions available," Mrs. Gallagher says, adding, "Anyone interested in competing can come to the club around 12:30."

Mrs. Sprabary will be back to defend her title, joining past winner, Christine Langtry. Newcomers include Deb Mallott, Angel Maroney, Danielle Mills, Amanda Davis, and Pamela Winchester, of Hammond.

"The woman with the best time is crowned the 'Rugged Wench' winner and is asked to defend her title the following year," says Mrs. Gallagher.

Ms. Winchester, who says she hasn't set a tip-up or carried a baby in over 20 years, believes the event honors north country women.

"The north country can be tough for women, especially young moms," she says. "I was brought up to be a supermom. My mom was always telling me that I could do anything I wanted to do - that it wasn't just a man's world anymore.

"Women around here endure anything put in front of them. From raising kids to repairing the home, gardening, hunting, sewing and baking - and usually with a smile on their face," Ms. Winchester says, adding, "I like that the Rugged Wench draws attention to this type of feeling."