Horse Pulling

Weigh In from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Saturday. There will be 2 classes Medium and Heavy Weight.

Step back in time and experience the tradition of Horse Pulling at the Vernon County Fair! Before tractors and modern machinery, horses were the driving force behind American farms, helping families grow food, move heavy loads, and power daily farm work. Today, horse pulling competitions celebrate the incredible strength, teamwork, and heritage of these hardworking animals.

In the Midwest, teams compete by pulling a weighted sled a distance of 27½ feet—a standard based on studies showing that this is where horses reach their maximum pulling power. Competitions are divided into two weight classes: Middleweight (3,600 pounds and under), and Heavyweight (over 3,600 pounds). It’s a true test of power, skill, and partnership between horse and handler.