A history of Tractor Pull at Fieldays

The Tractor Pull was introduced to Fieldays in 1975.

Tractor pulling is often regarded as the oldest motorsport globally, tracing back to the 1860s when farmers engaged in friendly competitions to showcase the strength of their draft horses. The objective was simple: determine whose horse could pull the greatest weight over the longest distance. The Tractor Pull was introduced to Fieldays in 1975. From its humble beginnings of small horsepower, manual gear boxes, two-wheel drive and mechanical problems, we fast-forward to an era where we see four-wheel drive, computerised tractors, and engines up to 260 horsepower.

The Tractor Pull consistently ranks as one of the main attractions at Fieldays remaining a place of great fun and camaraderie for both competitors and spectators alike.

Here’s how it works:

Weight Adjusted:
- Tractors compete based on their horsepower-to-weight ratio.
- Tractors with no more than 260 horsepower participate. The challenge lies in pulling a sledge while considering both the tractor’s weight and power.
Weight Transfer:
- All entrants are grouped into five weight classes.
- The sledge setting remains constant within a round but may be adjusted between rounds. The emphasis is as much on driver skill as raw power.
Modified Tractors:
- This category features modified tractors (either pre-1985 or customised). Any machine that does not fit into other classes.
- Modifications beyond standard specifications are allowed.
Pre-85 Tractors:
- Tractors manufactured before 1985, with standard configuration and manufactured with a factory-fitted, mechanical pull stop.
- Participants compete in two weight classes.