Truck and Tractor Pull at Rice County Fair

I had my usual spot Saturday evening at the Rice County Fair. I had the job of unhooking the trucks and tractors after their pull. It is safe to say I had about the best seat to watch the pull. The Allis Chalmers pictured below is called Endangered Species. Tractors in this class had about 1300 horsepower. They get the sled going about 30 mph down the track and their rear tires are turning about 40 mph.

The thing I have noticed over the years is this sport is really a family affair. They travel with semi-trailer motor homes and trailers to haul the trucks and tractors. They work together to get them ready for the pull. In the picture at top is a mom who drives the truck. The daughter is there for support. They also had a son who pulled with his truck. These teams are very competitive on the track. They want to win. Off the track they help each other. I overheard two drivers talking about their tractors. One had a problem with his engine he could not get solved. One was giving advice and wrapped up the conversation with "call me anytime." It is fun to be around people like this!