Plowing match gives Algoma-Manitoulin MPP a fervor for furrowing (14 photos)

Algoma-Manitoulin MPP Mike Mantha is one step closer to a plowing competition.

Mantha attended the Annual St. Joseph Island Plowing match aiming to fulfill a challenge but did not arrive early enough to get his name into the draw of lands. 

He did plow, finishing a piece of land offered and coached by Al Cameron.

A total of 14 competitors took part in this year's plowing match hosted by the St. Joseph Island Plowmen's Association, now in its 85th year since its inception.

"I have a greater appreciation for what the many pioneers did way before us, as well, a true love for why the people love the land so much, "Mantha said. 

Mantha was surprised but appreciate how the association gave their respect for one of their fallen.  

Land One is reserved and is not plowed in honor of Glenn Underhill. Underhill, a long time plower passed away Aug. 17, 2015.

"The respect they are paying not only to a plowman but a community member," Mantha said. "I actually got a lump in my throat." 

Mantha pointed out the Underhill story is among many he hears at a variety of community events he has attended. 

"People remember," he said. "We never forget our own." 

Mantha knew little about the local organization, but is still learning.

"I hate to say this but I am not a familiar face at this plowing match," he said, going on to say, the St. Joseph Island match is only one of three he has attended. "I'm planning on coming back next year, I am going to have my own plot of land, and I am going to bring a tractor that I am going to prepare myself, and I'm going to crown my own land and finish my own land."

Not only was Mantha surprised by the Island group celebrating a milestone in its history, but also that a 94-year-old returns year after year to compete.

"That's impressive," he said. "I see children out in the field and looking at mom, dad, grandma or grandpa who are doing exactly what many pioneers have done over the centuries. It really humbles a person to realizing how much work went into farmers day back then and how much work goes into the present day farmers."

Each and every day we have to thank our farmers, Mantha said. 

"Farmers feed us and if it wasn't for them, they are one of the biggest contributors to our economy," he said. "Let's not forget our farmers."

Newcomer, Shannon Morrison, admitted plowing was harder than she thought.

Among the challenges Morrison faced included the number of tractor and operators on the field and driving around them and the tight quarters to manoeuvre the tractor and set of drag plows.

Morrison spent several days prior to the match under the direction of tractor owner and coach, Perry Coulter. 

"I enjoyed driving Perry's old tractors," she said adding at the Coulter farm there was open fields to turn.

Morrison also researched the International Plowing Match and what all goes into the event as well its terminology.

"Overall, there are some good furrows here," said Judge Tom Murdock adding where some competitors made mistakes, that was really emphasized with each pass.

As for land conditions, Murdock added it was ideal with enough moisture. 

Winners are as followed.

• Senior Tractor Class, first, Nathan Underhill
• Utility Class (3 or more furrows), Tom Mowery
• Antique Tractor Class, Perry Coulter
• Junior Tractor Class (15 and under), Faith Coulter
• Women's Tractor Class, Shannon Morrison
• Senior Tractor Class (by age), Harold Kent
• Guest Plow Appearance, Michael Mantha

Specials

• Best Plowed Land in the Field, Nathan Underhill
• 2nd Best Plowed Land in the Field, Harold Kent
• Best Plowed Land by a Junior, Faith Coulter
• Best Plowed Land by a beginner who has never plowed at our match, Shannon Morrison
• 2nd Best Plowed Land by a beginner, Mike Fayter
• Best Opening Split and Straightest Furrow, Harold Kent
• Best Crown, Best Finish and Best Ins and Outs, Nathan Underhill
• Oldest Plower, Harold Kent, Youngest Plower, Faith Coulter
• Plowman coming the furthest with tractor and plow, Ian Murdock
• Host Farm, Gilbertson's