Local plowing enthusiasts won’t have to wait until fall to take in an impressive display of tilling prowess.
While the 2016 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo will be held in the north end of the county Sept. 20 to 24, Wellington County’s local match is set for Aug. 18 in Puslinch.
The 2016 Wellington County Plowmen’s Association (WCPA) Plowing Match will be hosted by Rolf and Jenn Deter on the Don Inglis Farm at 4584 Wellington Road 3, Puslinch.
The Wellington match has a long history in the local agricultural community, states WCPA president Dave Rogerson in a message inviting visitors.
“Each year we are very fortunate to have landowners make land available for match day and this year is no different. We have a great location; all we need is great weather,” he said. “The plowmen’s association members spend a lot of time planning and preparing for one day of activities. Everyone works with great interest and heart to keep this association going for the future.”
Even with a full-scale IPM set to take place in the county this fall, Rogerson said the local match remains a significant event worth attending.
“Our local match is a stepping stone for the plowmen competing for the 2016 IPM. Try to free up some time for a day of friendly competition, Queen of the Furrow events, fellowship, food, and an agricultural experience that has been going on for over 100 years,” he stated.
Wellington County’s 2015-16 Queen of the Furrow Allison Witzel will be on hand at the event, as will competitors for the 2016-17 title.
New this year is a Princess of the Furrow competition, open to girls aged 12 to 16. The winner will represent Wellington County at the 2017 match for the first ever IPM Princess competition.
“I look forward to seeing many new and familiar faces for a day of learning, plowing and fun,” Witzel states.
Plowing at the local match begins at 10am, with a wide range of tractor and horse classes scheduled. Also on the schedule are various special classes for Wellington County mayors and councillors, county OPP officers and spouses, and local 4-H members.
The 2016 Wellington County Plowmen’s banquet will be held on Oct. 22 at the Alma Community Centre. For more information go to www.wellingtonplowmen.com.
