Blackstock Truck and Tractor Pull Celebrates 50 Years of Tradition and Excitement

MARY MEYER Blackstock Agricultural Society

SCUGOG: This year marks a major milestone, as the Blackstock Truck and Tractor Pull celebrates its 50th anniversary.

What began as an idea, in 1976, has grown into one of Ontario's best pulling events, drawing competitors and spectators from across the province. The vision belonged to Harvey Graham, who attended a truck and tractor pull in Western Ontario and believed the Blackstock Fairgrounds would be the perfect place to host a similar event.

At first, the idea was met with skepticism, as not everyone was convinced a pulling competition would succeed in Blackstock. Eventually, an agreement was reached, to give the event a one-year trial run. Little did anyone know, that first pull would launch a tradition which would thrive for five decades and counting.

Over the years, Blackstock has earned a reputation among competitors, for its excellent pulling conditions and unique slightly curved track. Generations of local pullers have competed, alongside participants who travel long distances to test their machines and skills, on one of Ontario's most respected tracks.

Today, the event welcomes approximately 3000 spectators annually and has expanded into a two-day showcase of horsepower, competition, and community spirit. Fans can enjoy a wide variety of truck and tractor classes, along with thrilling demonstration pulls which light up the track each evening.

The event has also witnessed positive changes over the years. In the early days, women were not permitted to compete in the same classes as men. In response, Blackstock introduced the "Power Puff" class, giving female competitors their own opportunity to participate. The winning female puller was awarded a bouquet of roses. In the beginning, tractors were weighed on the feed scales, later requiring the addition of large timbers, when the tractors got bigger and heavier. Today, the Blackstock Truck and Tractor Pull proudly partners with the Ontario Truck and Tractor Pulling Association (OTTPA), helping to attract top competitors and maintain the high standards pullers and fans have come to expect.

While the powerful machines may be the stars of the show, the event's success is built on the dedication of countless volunteers, fair board members, local businesses, and community families who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Their commitment on the track, throughout the event and behind the scenes, ensures the Blackstock Truck and Tractor Pull remains a highlight of the summer calendar.

As the engines roar to life, for the 50th edition, the Blackstock Ag Society invites everyone to join in celebrating a remarkable legacy of competition, community, and tradition which continues to grow stronger with each passing year. To celebrate this milestone, we will be hosting a Local Vintage Non Circuit Pull, ahead of our regular start time, on Saturday night. Join us at 5:30 p.m., on Saturday evening, for this nostalgic addition to our evening pulls. We look forward to welcoming you this year, on Friday, July 3rd and Saturday, July 4th, to celebrate this exciting milestone!