By Philip Oddi
Rain could not dampen participants’ hopes of winning the Prescott County Plowing Match, hosted by the Prescott County Plowmen’s Association (PCPA). The 65th edition of the match took place near Vankleek Hill on Saturday, September 7 at Ferme André et Luc Besner.
The rain came and went as the event plowed on into the early afternoon. Competitors of differing ages showcased their skills on sandy grounds while adapting to the inclement weather conditions.
Officials stated that 35 competitors participated in the local event.
Each competitor could compete in one class and was judged on differing criteria through their quality of work. Judging criteria included straightness, uniformity, the opening furrow, the headland, and the general neatness of the contestant’s area.
A collection of new and antique tractors as well as horses were on full display for the time-honoured tradition. Some of the varieties of tractors used at the match included Allis-Chalmers, Massey-Harris, John Deere, Case, Kioti, and Massey-Ferguson among others.
Winners were announced by the class competitors participated:
- Class 1 (Professionals, drag plow or mounted, 12 inches 2 furrows): Chris Allen
- Class 2 (Junior, under 21): Olivier Binette
- Class 3 (New contestants): Jolivel Julien
- Class 4 (Ladies): Not applicable.
- Class 5 (Mounted plow, 12 inches 3 furrows): Rob MacDonald
- Class 6 (Antique tractors, pre-1959): Jean-Marc Dessaint
- Class 7 (Antique hydraulic, pre-1959): Nicole Calande
- Class 8 (Horses with walking plow): Samuel Bourgon
- Class 9 (Horses with sulky plow): Glen Conway
Overall, Nicole Calande had the highest marks of the entire competition.
The Prescott County Plowing Match will be returning next year. Spectators are encouraged to attend, witness, and cheer on the skills of their neighbours, colleagues, and friends from the region.
Next year’s competition information will be announced on the PCPA website when available: www.prescottplowmenass.com.
Photos: Philip Oddi
