Alpena Tractor Pull Unites Community and Raises Vital Funds for AVFD
Under a blistering sun and against the backdrop of roaring engines, the Alpena Volunteer Fire Department (AVFD) hosted its biggest and most successful tractor pull to date on Saturday, July 26. The annual event, held just southwest of the Red Hog, drew 177 hooks and competitors from across South Dakota—and as far away as 20 miles south of the Canadian border.
“It was the biggest show we’ve had to date,” said event organizer and Alpena fireman Chris Albrecht. “We were a little short on attendees, but it was also 105 degrees. Beer sales were good though.”
More than just a high-octane day of competition, the event serves as a crucial fundraiser for the Alpena Volunteer Fire Department.
Firefighter bunker gear is designed to protect against extreme heat, flames, hazardous materials, and physical injuries. However, even if it appears to be in good shape, it is required to be replaced every 10 years. With 19 firemen on the roster and 15 sets of bunker gear needed due to expiration, the department is working hard to keep up with rising costs.
“Ten years ago, bunker gear cost $2,800 a set. Now it’s $5,000,” Albrecht said. “We have a few new guys with updated gear, but we need to outfit most of our department. That’s over $75,000 we need to raise.”
Saturday’s event showcased the department’s spirit and dedication. “I can’t say enough about the whole group of firemen we have,” Albrecht said. “There are doers and there are those who ride along. We don’t have any of those who just provide shade. Everyone was doing something.”
That included long-time volunteers like Jim Scheel and Gerry Orth, who both had property damagedinlastweek’sstormbutstill showed up to help. “Jim was there the whole day, despite everything he had going on,” Albrecht said. “The younger guys really stepped up too. When help was in short supply, they made a big, big difference. Despite the heat, there were no complaints. They just did what had to be done.”
The day kicked off with a Kids Pedal Pull at 10:30 a.m., followed by a car show at noon, and the main event—tractor pulling—at 1 p.m. Classes included Stock, Speed Limit, and Open categories for tractors ranging from 2,500 to 9,500 pounds. Highlights included two jackpot divisions, and a Featured Team Event pairing pullers by random draw to compete for combined distance prizes.
Pedal pull participation continues to grow, and next year’s event will feature pedal pulls running concurrently with the tractor pull, rather than in the morning. “We’re learning as we go and making it better each year,” said Albrecht.
A personal highlight for Albrecht was watching his three-generation tractor-pulling family in action. “My family has collected tractors since the 1940s. My dad, Steve, started pulling in 1964. I started when I was 12. Now my oldest son, Cade, who’s 11, has been pulling since he was six.”
Cade stole the show this year, winning the Division 3 Modified 4500 and 5000 classes. In a thrilling family face-off, he beat his grandpa Steve by just one-hundredth of a foot. “Last month in Madison, my dad beat Cade by three-tenths,” Albrecht said with a smile. “This time, Cade pulled 319.32. Dad had 319.22.”
As for the youngest Albrecht? Cale turned six on Saturday and had just one birthday wish: to pull a tractor. “He ended up getting to pull twice,” said Albrecht. “That made it the most fun I’ve had at a pull in a long time.”
The event also saw a record number of sponsors—74 in total— and strong support at the concession stand. “We’re so thankful for all the businesses, families, and individuals who stepped up this year,” Albrecht said.
While the tractors have cooled and the dust has settled, the work for the Alpena Fire Department continues. For those who were unable to attend but would still like to contribute to the department’s bunker gear fundraising efforts, donations can be made by contacting Fire Chief Ryder Schweitzer at 605-530-0167 or Chris Albrecht at 605-360-1436.
“This event brings life to a town that doesn’t have a whole bunch going on,” Albrecht said. “And it helps keep our department strong, safe, and ready to serve. I always tell people—we may be small, but we outdo any big-city department.”
To support the Alpena Volunteer Fire Department’s effort to purchase new bunker gear, reach out to Ryder Schweitzer or Chris Albrecht.