Jackleg Drilling Competition 2027

Date: Wednesday, June 9, 2027

Time: 11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Location: Outside at “The Rocks,” north of Arena 2 (Curling Arena), McIntyre Community Complex

Feel the Power. Hear the Rock. Take the Challenge.

The Jackleg Drilling Competition brings one of mining’s most exciting traditions to life at the Canadian Mining Expo. Step up to the rock as a competitor—or get close to the action and cheer on the drillers.

Watch the Canadian Mining Expo Jackleg Drilling Competition video

See the jackleg competition in action — watch the video. Click anywhere on the image.

Ready to Compete?

Whether you are picking up a jackleg for the first time or you are an experienced Northern pro, there is a division for you.

Free competitor registration
Open to women and men
Novices receive hands-on assistance
Equipment and safety gear are provided
Prizes, trophies and bragging rights are on the line

No experience? No problem. The Novice Division is your chance to safely try one of mining’s most recognizable skills with an experienced team beside you.

Ready to Compete? Sign Up Below
Complete the signup form at the bottom of this page.

Come Watch the Rock Fly

This is not a quiet demonstration. It is fast, loud and full of Northern mining pride.

See first-timers take on the Novice Challenge
Watch experienced pros compete on control, accuracy and speed
Cheer for community leaders in the Dignitary Challenge
Stay for the awards and celebrate the winners

Get there early. The best viewing spots fill quickly once the drills start. Bring your co-workers, your crew and your camera.

Jackleg drilling at the Canadian Mining Expo

Competitor taking part in the Jackleg Drilling Competition

The 2027 Competition Lineup

11:30 a.m. Dignitary Challenge — women and men

12:30 p.m. Novice Division — women and men

1:30 p.m. Northern Jackleg Pros — women and men

3:00 p.m. Awards Ceremony

Skill Under Pressure

In the professional division, competitors must safely set up the drill, install the steel, collar the holes and complete the required drilling pattern. Speed matters—but it is only one part of the score. Judges also look for safe work habits, control, precision, hole alignment and professional conduct.

For novices and dignitaries, experienced support is close at hand. Every competitor must check in before their division begins. Bring warm socks; the safety equipment and gear are supplied

Jackleg drilling action at the Canadian Mining Expo

Will You Drill—or Will You Cheer?

Join us at “The Rocks” on Wednesday, June 9th. Competitors should complete the signup form at the bottom of this page and must check in with the competition host upon arrival.

Scroll Down to Sign Up—Registration Is Free

On-site check-in opens at 11:00 a.m. Please use the sign-up form below to claim your spot in advance.

Rules

MEN

2 parallel holes will be driven 6 inches apart and drilled to a specified depth 24" (between inner edges)

1 point is deducted for every ¼ inch deviation from the plan on alignment

1 point is deducted for every ½ inch deviation from the plan on depth

Time is only a tie-deciding factor if equal scores are reached

WOMEN

1 hole to be drilled to a specified depth of 6"

1 point will be deducted for every 1/8 inch deviation from the plan

The example below shows a deduction of 6 points

2 points, right hole is drilled to 25 inches, plan in example is 24 inches

1 point, collar of hole position

3 points, measured 2 feet from collar of holes for alignment