Around 150 skiers from 20 nations will descend on the American town – located in the Chequamagon National Forest - in what will be the largest gathering of biathlon and cross-country skiers since Sochi 2014. 

As well as revealing the identity of the mascot, the organisers also gave a glimpse into what festivities will take place at the Opening Ceremony - details which had been kept secret up until now.

"Tim Burr fits in nicely with what we have planned for part of the Ceremony - the re-enactment of a lumberjack competition," Yuriy Gusev, chairman of the Local Organising Committee, said.

"The Lumberjack World Championships are held here every summer.

"The lumber industry is still a major part of our economy and is the second greatest revenue source for Bayfield County, so we are really keen to incorporate it into the Championships."

Cable 2015 will see the largest gathering of Paralympic biathlon and cross country skiers compete since Sochi 2014 ©Getty Images





The lumberjack mascot reflects the area's rich heritage and history in the lumber industry, built around its natural resources in the 19th century.

Back in the 1800's, loggers would float trees down one of Bayfield County's rivers before they were turned into lumber and shipped off to Chicago.

The Championships themselves will see a host of world and Paralympic champions compete at the Telemark Resort, and the Opening Ceremony scheduled to take place on January 23, with biathlon kicking off the first day of competition on January 24.

Entry to all events during the week long event is free to all spectators.

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