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Politicians compete in Chilliwack Plowing Match

Abbotsford mayor Bruce Banman beats out Les, Throness, Stam and Post


Four Fraser Valley politicians, and one political hopeful, battled for the win on Saturday afternoon — atop a green Ford tractor.

The men all took part in the "mayors' competition" segment of the 90th Annual Chilliwack Plowing Match on McLeod Road. Contestants included Abbotsford Mayor Bruce Banmen, Chilliwack MLA John Les, District of Kent Councillor Duane Post, Chilliwack Councillor Chuck Stam and Liberal MLA by-election candidate Laurie Throness.

They each took their turn on the plow, turning the soil over as they went, as a small crowd gathered to watch. Their work was judged on criteria such as straightness, equipment handling, and general appearance.

In the end, Banman won with 48 points. Les took second with 47 points. Stam took third place, while Post and Throness were tied for fourth.

The mayors' competition is open to mayors or their representatives. While invited, there were no representatives available from the communities of Hope, Harrison an Mission.

Banman will be awarded with the Neil MacGregor Memorial Trophy during an upcoming council meeting.

Other competitions during the Plowing Match Saturday included the B.C. Junior and Senior Championships, walking plows and antique trailers and plows.