Horse Pulling Champions Crowned in Kentucky

The excitement radiated in Bowling Green, Kentucky at the 33rd annual Glen Russelburg Memorial horse pull on Saturday, June 1, 2024. Organized annually by the esteemed Bluegrass Horse Pulling Association, the event gathered 20 of the finest horse teams and drivers from a spread of five states. These contenders congregated at the WKU L.D. Brown Ag Expo, each vying for the title of the strongest and most persevering team, capable of pulling the most weight over the greatest distance.

A Tradition of Exceptional Competition

Over the course of several decades, the Glen Russelburg Memorial horse pull has solidified its place as a premiere event within the horse pulling realm. Chris Hatfield, Vice President of the Bluegrass Horse Pulling Association, emphasized the significance of the event, “There are certain pulls around the United States that you want to go to and try to win, and this is one of them.” The competition has consistently been stiff since the inaugural event in 1991, with each participating team demonstrating an immense level of skill, dedication, and commitment, both in the equine competitors and their human counterparts.

High Stakes and Unforgettable Victories

Before the start of the event, each participating team was weighed. The 10 lightest teams were classified as the ‘Lightweight’ contenders while the remaining 10 heaviest teams competed in the ‘Heavy Overweight’ category. The Burton Brothers of Columbia, KY secured a memorable victory in the Heavy Overweight class, with their horses Bill and Shine pulling a staggering weight of 12,250 pounds over a length of 16’ 4’. In the Lightweight class, Yoder and Hatfield steered their team of Karl & Todd to success, pulling a weight of 11,450 pounds over a distance of 23’ 11’.

Youngest Competitor at the Pull

Notably, the youngest competitor vying in this prestigious event was 15-year-old Ethan Burton, demonstrating that age is no hindrance to extraordinary talent and determination.

A Testament to Strength and Endurance

The Glen Russelburg Memorial Pull exemplifies the incredible power, strength, and resilience of these magnificent creatures, as well as the skills and strategies of the teams guiding them. With enthusiasts keenly observing from all corners of the United States, this event contributes to preserving and celebrating the legacy of horse pulling, a cultural fixture in many rural communities.