Des Moines – The roar of engines filled Elwell Family Park on Saturday as the Outlaws Truck and Tractor Pull took center stage at the Iowa State Fair. The event attracted a full house of fairgoers eager to watch local drivers and teams put their horsepower to the test, pulling a weighted sled as far as possible.
Organized by the Outlaw Truck & Tractor Pulling Association (OTTPA), the competition featured 14 distinct classes and more than 250 vehicles. Spectators cheered as each competitor launched down the track, the tension building with every foot of sled movement.
At the conclusion of the day, the association announced the class winners:
- 4WD Class – Layne Thornton
- Super Farm Class – Allen Andrews
- Diesel Super Stock Class – Tyler Boeckmann
- 5.0 Pro Stock (North) Class – Kyle Pedley
- Pro 4×4 Class – Toby Vanderpool
- Modified Class – Wayne Bunnage
- Diesel 3.0 Class – Skyler Leeper
- Ag Light Super Stock Class – Jeremy Paulsen
Each champion demonstrated skill, preparation, and a deep connection to the agricultural and mechanical traditions that define the Midwest. The pull’s format, which rewards both raw power and precise control, highlights the region’s long‑standing relationship with farming equipment and custom‑built trucks.
The OTTPA is a traveling organization that visits more than 50 cities across the Midwest each season. After the Iowa State Fair stop, the association’s schedule lists its next event for tomorrow in Wisner, Nebraska, continuing the tour that brings this high‑octane spectacle to communities throughout the region.
Community Impact
Beyond the excitement of competition, the truck and tractor pull serves as a gathering point for families, hobbyists, and local businesses. Vendors set up around the arena, offering food, merchandise, and information about related motorsport clubs. For many attendees, the event provides a chance to connect with neighbors who share a passion for engines, farming heritage, and friendly rivalry.
Local schools and youth organizations also benefit, as the pull often includes outreach components that introduce younger generations to mechanical engineering concepts and safe vehicle handling practices. By showcasing the skill and dedication of adult competitors, the event inspires future participants and reinforces the community’s appreciation for hard work and ingenuity.
Looking Ahead
With the Iowa State Fair concluding, the Outlaws Truck and Tractor Pull will continue its Midwest circuit, bringing the same blend of competition and community engagement to new audiences. Fans in Wisner, Nebraska, can expect the same high‑energy atmosphere, while the OTTPA plans additional stops later in the season, maintaining its role as a staple of regional fair entertainment.
The Iowa State Fair’s truck and tractor pull remains a highlight of the fair’s programming, illustrating how local traditions and modern motorsport can coexist to celebrate the spirit of the heartland.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
