by Sylene Argent, Local Journalism Initiative
The annual Essex County Plowing Match is more than a challenge, testing the precision and abilities of local farmers, it’s an event that sets a tone of camaraderie and provides a chance for competitors to exchange tips and best practices out on the competition site.
On Saturday, the Essex County Plowmen's Association hosted its annual Plowing Match Competition and Farm Equipment Show at a farm Larry and Dan Pajot own in Amherstburg, just outside of McGregor.
Though parts of the County were hammered with rain the night before, storm and rain clouds managed to miss the competition site, and competitors were onsite early, hoping to begin inching their way to qualifying for the International Plowing Match (IPM) and Rural Expo that will take place in early October in Kawartha Lakes.
The Essex County-based match-up was the first scheduled as a potential qualifier for the IPM, Murray McLeod said, who is the Secretary/Treasurer of the Essex County Plowmen's Association.
Saturday’s competition, he said, attracted 17 quality participants, including a few competing in the youth category. He suspected the roster of competitors was split fairly evenly between local farmers and those from out-of-town looking to gather enough points this season to qualify to compete at the IPM.
Every year, the Essex County Plowmen's Association's Plowing Match rotates to a new farm within the region, giving farmers an opportunity to invite fellow industry professionals to their property to compete.
After each competitor had their chance to plow their competition plot to the best of their ability – aiming to be precise and perfect in their execution – the annual awards night and dinner event was held at the Harrow Fair Agriculture Building later that evening.
At this event, the Essex County Plowmen's Association presented a $500 scholarship to Alexis D. of Cottam, which she will be able to put towards her post-secondary education. This scholarship program can be a competitive process to earn.
Members of the Essex County Plowmen's Association are always grateful to the long-list of sponsors that ensure the annual event is a go. They were also thankful to the Essex Rotary Club for hosting a concession booth during the event.
Essex MP Chris Lewis attended the match and presented a certificate of recognition to the landowners. Essex MP Anthony Leardi also attended the event to show his support, and won Class # 6.
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