Ploughing in the mist
Heavy fog added to the atmosphere of the 64th National Ploughing Championships, held recently at Chertsey, near Rakaia, in Mid Canterbury.
The event was well supported with many local and visiting competitors travelling from Waikato, Reporoa, Napier/Hastings and Wairarapa. There were 26 vintage tractors and ploughs and three competitors competing in the Case IH Silver Plough qualifying event.
There was an entry by Rebecca Noaro using a Ferguson T tractor and single furrow plough who, with assistance from a Norwegian woman friend, ploughed extremely well and they both enjoyed the day immensely.
Due to another event being held in Morrinsville, the usual horse competitors were unable to attend; their presence was missed by the many spectators.
The weather was fine and warm, with good ground conditions; the continual dry weather had not affected the peat soil like most of the region. The ground ploughed well provided the competitors did not plough deep. There was strong competition for the top positions with only one point separating 1st and 2nd in the vintage class.
The day was well attended with instruction offered by several experienced ploughman and judges. The improvements made by some of competitors were noticeable and appreciated by the ploughman involved.
There was a BBQ lunch supplied and sponsored by Claas Service Centre which was appreciated by everyone.
