A show of strength, horsepower and might, the Grand River Truck and Tractor Pull is back.
In Elora on Aug. 26 and 27, spectators will be treated to a spectacular show, with tractors and trucks revving their engines and pulling big weight, and some struggling in the process.
The show features 16 categories for trucks and tractor drivers to enter, including 8,000 lb modified tractors, super mod 4×4 trucks, gas 4×4 trucks, diesel 4×4 trucks, and much, much more.
Organizer Derek Bruder says there will be some new categories this year, as well.
“On the Friday night we are continuing our program of local truck and tractors with a new addition for 2016, local highway tractors,” he said. “Saturday night’s lineup is also expanding with the addition of super modified two-wheel-drive trucks. These trucks are approximately 2000 horsepower, and a special guest demo puller. The surprise will be revealed that night.”
The big draw for the crowds, however, is the King of the Pull contest on the Friday night. Bruder says it is the culmination of contests from throughout the summer.
“It consists of four pulls throughout the summer which pullers accumulate points for the title of King of Pull,” he said, adding that the next evening, there are more events that pack the stands. “Saturday night’s big draws are the pro stock tractors and the super modified 2WD trucks – lots of horsepower and noise.”
This is only the second year that organizers have held a two-day event in the 13 years the Grand River Tractor and Truck Pull has been happening after leaving the Elmira area. Bruder says the event has always been a hit, continuing to get bigger and bigger.
“We have had great success with the event over the past few years, expanding our show each year” said Bruder. “Last year was our first two-night show, which had fantastic results both for spectators and the pull committee. Last year between both nights, we had approximately 2,500 spectators total.”
The weekend event has a different feel on each night and spectators can pick which night they want to attend.
“Friday night focuses on local trucks and tractors, Saturday night brings smoke, speed and noise featuring modified trucks and tractors from all over the province,” he said. “As well, the Grand River Agricultural Society provides one of the best venues for pullers and spectators in Ontario.”
For when pull-watchers get hungry or thirsty, Bruder says there will be plenty of eats, with food trucks on the grounds supporting local service clubs, and a beer garden right next to the track.
Tickets for Friday night’s events are $10, with kids 12 and under getting in for free. On Saturday, adult tickets will be $15, kids age five to 12 will cost $5 and kids under the age of five will be free.
The events start up at 6 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday at the Grand River Raceway in Elora.
