Match celebrates art of plowing

Aug 09, 2017

Local farmers will have their hands on a plow and feet near a furrow at the Frontenac County Plowing Match in Battersea this Saturday. An annual tradition by the Frontenac County Plowmen’s Association, the match is a celebration of the history, importance and art of growing food. “We have a match every year,” confirmed Martin Oomen, President of the Association. “The plowmen need to have so many matches and wins under their belts to qualify for the International Plowing Match.” An electrician and farmer from Sunbury, Oomen looks at the match as a way to pay homage to the skills of our forefathers. “I still like watching the horse plowing and antique plowing,” admitted the friendly 62-year-old. “It’s an art to plow well.” A successful farmer of beef cows and cash crops, Oomen is looking forward to the match that requires a team of volunteers to plan and host. Judges have been hired to score the 15- 20 plowmen who will be working the field with horses, antique plows and tractors. Organizers estimate the match has been held in the county for 100 years. “Basically we’re continuing a tradition that started many years ago,” said Oomen thoughtfully. “It’s keeping a piece of our heritage alive.” To be held on Aug. 12 at Cloverview Farms in Battersea (4440 Millburn Road), the match includes exhibitors, food and music by Adam Knapp. The match is hosted by Jeff, Richard and Robert Sunneveld from 10 am to 3 pm. Winners of this event could advance to the International Plowing Match near Walton, Ontario next month. “I’ll be competing myself,” said Oomen with excitement about the upcoming plowing match in Frontenac County. “These matches are the Olympics of plowing,” he noted with a smile. To learn more about the Frontenac County Plowing Match, contact Martin Oomen at 613-583-4761 or find the event on Facebook at 2017 Plowing Match by Frontenac County Plowmen’s Association.