Exciting event brings the competition to Bonners Ferry September 17 By Jillian Chandler
For those who have never experienced a truck and tractor pull, traditionally these are competitions in which modified vehicles, trucks and antique tractors take turns pulling a weighted sled down a designated track. The objective to see who can pull it the farthest and whether you’re rooting for the local boys running their trucks through or modified vehicles driven by the pros who are in it for points, the Bonners Ferry Truck and Tractor Pull is an evening you’ll not soon forget!
The inspiration behind hosting a pull in Bonners Ferry was “to add another evening of entertainment for the community, with something for folks of all ages,” recalls Alison Henslee, one of the event organizers, along with Delton and Blayne Amoth and Sarah Henslee. “The response after the first year was so positive, we were encouraged to keep going!” 2022 marks their third event.
Sponsored by Aamodt, Inc. and Cascade Pullers LLC, the Bonners Ferry pull is strategically scheduled to follow a big show the previous night at the Spokane Interstate Fair. “The pullers love having our show the next day because it gives them what they call a ‘double hitch’ weekend, with extra points and more fun,” states Alison, “and we love having the pros here because they put on such a great show!”
Driver registration is open from 2 to 5pm on September 17 at the Boundary County Fairgrounds, and the cost is $25. Semi trucks, pickups, tractors and modified vehicles are all invited to participate; the only requirements are that vehicles have a hitch with a 3-inch clevis, and drivers must wear a helmet during their pull.
The evening kicks off with mini modifieds pulling the sled, followed by the local gas and diesel class, and concluding with modified pro pullers rounding out the show.
Organizers hope to bring back a meet-and-greet session afterward so attendees can check out the modified vehicles and meet the drivers.
Spectators can easily expect a family friendly evening of fun, loud, fast-paced entertainment! “We hope to add more big rigs and some antique tractors this year,” Alison shares, “but either way, it’s always guaranteed to be a great show.”
Tickets are $15 general admission; free for children 5 and younger. In addition to the great arena entertainment, attendees can enjoy a beer garden, and food and drinks from local vendors.
“We really appreciate our sponsors who donate equipment, time and funds for us to build a bigger and better event every year,” Alison says. “We are also grateful for our track building team plus all the many volunteers who cover registration, security and ticket booths. It takes a small army to pull off an event like this—and ours is the best!”