For his grade 6 public speaking assignment, Ian chose to talk about garden tractor pulling. I think it's great, but I'm only slightly biased - a dad requirement. Hope you enjoy it. Good morning teacher and class mates! Introduction How would you like to drive something big without a license? Let me tell you about the heaviest motor-sport on wheels! My hobby. Garden tractor pulling.
About the tractors My first pulling tractor was like a light tin box with wheels and a motor. I felt good but it wasn’t competitive. I was 9 but I was hooked. I’ve since learned that there are different types of tractors that are more competitive. Some tractors are heavier and stronger. Weight wins! Most of the tractors are antiques and some are older than my dad! I like the old tractors because they were built better than the new ones. Some of my favourites are John Deere, Cub Cadet and Moto-mower.
Getting ready My tractor is an 8HP Moto-mower. I put on wider tires, loaded them with water. Then I bolted on wheel weights to make the tractor as heavy as possible. Remember – weight wins! Before we go to the pull I will make sure the motor is running properly, no broken or loose parts and the belts are in good shape. Then I clean my tractor so it looks nice.
At the pull At the pull the first thing we do is attend the drivers’ meeting, where we are reminded of the rules like: no drinking – except for milk which is OK, To have fun and stay safe. Safety is important. I saw a tractor flip over backwards while it was pulling. Wheelie bars would have prevented it. I had a 500 pound tractor flip on to me while I was driving it on to a trailer. It was fast and scary, but I’m OK. Now we drive backwards up the ramp, it’s safer. The winner is the one that pulls the sled the furthest. Prizes are plaques not money – just a “whoo hoo” – and a plaque. Other people are nice. Even though they want to win they help each other fix tractors and share tips on how to be competitive. What I really like What I really like is driving around the yard. I get to take my friends for rides. I also help my dad do chores around the yard; moving a heavy boat or a trailer full of firewood. I’m really looking forward for the Christmas parades because I’m in them to help promote the Valley Garden Tractor Pullers.
Conclusion So if you want to drive something big without a license, you should drive a tractor not a truck because tractor pulling is the heaviest motor-sport on wheels. If you want to know more, please visit www.vgtp.ca.
Author:
Ian Clipperton – gr6 – fall 2010 Feel free to send comments to:  |
Ian's grade 6 speech |