The roar of tractors and the careful maneuvering of agricultural equipment were part of the competitive action at the Eastern Regional FFA Contests Sept. 19 at the Eastern States Exposition in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Among the competitors was Ty Heavner, Pendleton County FFA member, who participated in the Safe Tractor and Equipment Operation Event and finished third overall.
After winning the West Virginia FFA state title in large tractor driving in July, Heavner earned the opportunity to represent West Virginia at The Big E, competing against other top FFA competitors from across the region.
The competition was an opportunity to demonstrate the skills he has developed through hands-on experience with agricultural equipment. The event tested both his knowledge and ability to safely operate different types of equipment.
During the competition, Heavner completed a written test, identified tools and tractor parts, and took part in several driving events which included operating a two-wheeled manure spreader, four-wheeled trailer, tractor loader, and skid-loader.
Each event required careful driving, attention to detail, and knowledge of equipment safety. His third-place finish capped off a successful year of competition and showcased the skills he has developed through FFA and hands-on experience with agricultural equipment.
