There were many extremely powerful machines at the Stormont County Plowing match, but some of the most interesting ones didn’t run on diesel. Horse powered plows are always popular and prove each time out how they work as a team. Tinkess Photo
FINCH – The Stormont County Plowing Match first took place in Berwick in 1932. On Sat., Oct. 12, 2024, under clear, blue skies a record number of competitors in seven classes helped it to continue to grow.
The match was hosted by Janna and Stefan Stucki at 15309 County Road 43, Finch.
Registration opened at 9:00 a.m. and there was a steady stream of competitors for most of the morning. When all was said and done, there were 58 registrants, reportedly a record.
The classes in the match were broken down as follows:
- Class One, Horse plowing, Open to all
- Class Two, Antique
Group A Trail plow
Group B Under 18
Group C Hydraulic - Class Three, Farm Standard
Group A Two furrows
Group B Three furrows - Class Four, Competitors under 18, Open to all
- Class Five, Competition Plows, Open to all
Group A Two furrows
Group B Three Furrows - Class Six, Farm Standard
Four or more furrows - Class Seven, Reversible
There were cash prizes to be awarded in all classes, $35 for first, $30 for second, $28 for third. For fourth place and onward, the prize was $25 each.
There was a cool breeze blowing, but hot coffee and baked goods were available. Lunch was also available on site, served by the Goldfield Calf Club.
No event can succeed without the efforts of a dedicated number of volunteers, and the Stormont County Plowing Match is no exception. Kelsey Smith, President of the Stormont Federation of Agriculture and her fellow board members were among those making sure things ran smoothly. She said she was pleased with how things turned out.
“The weather turned out great this year compared to the last couple years,” said Smith. “It’s great to see a record number of plowers again this year. We have a great crowd, great sponsorships and many donations.
“We have a Princess of the Furrow competition this year as well,” added Smith. “That will be this evening at the banquet.”
That, along with awards, prizes and a delicious meal served by Dr. George’s Catering made the evening at the Finch Community Hall a memorable event.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Bernard Beehler trophy. This year’s winner is Lissa Manley. The trophy was presented to her by Ted Moran.
Members of the Stormont 4-H Plowing Club were also recognized, as was David Brown, the sponsor of the prizes they received. Brown has long been known for his support for agriculture and youth in Stormont County.
There was strong competition for the role of Princess of the Furrow, but Brooke Carruthers was eventually crowned as the Princess of the Furrow.
The 2023-2024 Stormont County Queen of the Furrow, Haleigh-Jo TePlate, had been at the Plowing Match for most of the day, but the brisk wind and the bright sun didn’t bother her in the least.
“I’m enjoying it,” said TePlate. “I’ve been around at fairs and other events, giving support and representing the Stormont Cattlemen’s Association and the International Plowing Match.”
She says the role was pretty much what she expected it to be. “I’ve actually done this before as Princess of the Furrow. There was a little bit of difference. This year, as Queen, I have to plow.
“I’ve plowed before, but not wearing the crown and sash!”
She, Princess Brooke Carruthers, and Stormont Plowmen’s Association President Kelsey Smith took some time to pose for photos before moving along with their official duties.
A day spent outside, working hard at something you enjoy doing, followed by a good meal and an evening socializing and being recognized for your efforts is, to most of the people in attendance, a pretty good day. It’s hard to disagree.
