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World Ploughing Contest 2019: Something for Everyone

For many, the question comes up, “What is a World Ploughing Contest?”  It isn’t a surprise that many in the U.S. may not have heard of a ploughing contest.  Over in Europe, however, it is wildly popular.  In fact, in Ireland for their national contest, they attract around 300,000 people during their three day event.  With that being said, our upcoming event taking place just a few miles south of Baudette, MN on August 30 – Sep 1 is estimated to attract in the range of 30,000 people over three days.World Ploughing Contest, Lake of the Woods

For many, this event will be the first ploughing contest they have ever viewed.  In a nutshell, the World Contest is a two day event.  One day the competitors plow stubble.  The second day, grassland.  Each crop has a different root structure.  The grassland is said by most to be more difficult as it will clearly show any slight mistake in plowing.  The third day will be the U.S. Nationals and the North American Championships.

Fierce Competition.  Competitors start out with 200 points.  They are scored on various aspects of plowing such as how straight they plow, depth of furrow, how even the rows are, consistent height of rows, etc., etc.  For this kind of detail, competitors have worked feverishly to tweak their plows for success.  Much grinding, welding, assorted plastics over the discs, hydraulics to make the slightest of adjustments, etc.  Because of this fine tuning of each tractor and plow, some of the competitors will be shipping their tractor and plow across the ocean in a container, and then by rail car to MSP and finally by semi to Baudette.  This contest often comes down to a couple of points.  Bragging rights for the world are on the line with 30 plus countries competing in this year’s event.  There is no holding back!

2019 World Ploughing Contest, Lake of the WoodsMake no mistake about it, for the most part, this crowd is very friendly with one another off of the fields.  Once the contest begins, these competitors are all business.  They are the best of the best and they want to win.  They are also representing their home country, in most cases, having to win a national contest to have the honor to represent.

In Addition to the Competition.  For spectators, this event is about so much more than just the contest.  Imagine watching the ploughing contest while kibitzing with someone on your left from New Zealand and someone on your right from Ireland.  The opportunity to meet people from around the world and even U.S. and Canada will be priceless for many.  This is an opportunity for people of all ages to really rub elbows with visitors to the area from across the country, North America and of course the world.

In addition, let’s not forget about the festive atmosphere these quiet fields will be transformed into for three days.

Variety of Exhibitors.  There will be exhibitors showing off their products and services.  An opportunity to get up front and personal with a nice variety of companies.

Test Plots.  There will be companies putting their best foot forward with test plots showing off quality seeds, fertilizers, and more.

People Mover Carts.  People mover carts will be transporting folks to different parts of the event for everyone’s convenience.fried cheese curds

-The Northern MN Draft Horse Association will have a display with three horses and three mules.  See how things were done in days of past.

The Good Ole Days.  Vintage tractors and plows will be displayed.  Enjoy a variety of equipment from the past.

Live Music.  Scheduled to perform at the World Ploughing Contest, The Clay Hess Band from Nashville, TN.

Food and Drink.  A variety of delicious foods from brats to hand dipped cheese curds, mini donuts, chicken strips, corn dogs, porketta, nachos and cheese, Chinese foods, and more.  There will also be a wide variety of beverages served, including water, soda, fresh lemonade and beer at the World Ploughing Beer Garden.2019 World Ploughing Contest, Lake of the Woods

Viewing a ploughing contest for many will be something new.  Whether it’s the ploughing contest you are interested in, meeting guests from around the world, great food and drink, live music or checking out the many vendors displaying, there is something for everyone.  Mark your calendars and make your reservations now!

Lake of the Woods Tourism is still seeking both sponsors and volunteers.  For more info, www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.

 

Click Here for more info about the 2019 World Ploughing Contest

Click Here for more info about Lake of the Woods Lodging / Fishing Charters and Guides

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