By C.J.McGinley
VINTAGE tractor enthusiasts are aiming to break a world record in Donegal next year. The Ferguson World Record Challenge is to take place in Burt on September 20-21.
The aim is to have over 400 vintage ‘Ferguson’ tractors working in one field at the same time. The venue is to be on lands at the Grianán Estate in Burt.
The world record is currently held in New South Wales, Australia. Speaking to the Donegal News, Alan Robb, from Raphoe, a member of the organising committee, said it was the first time such a world record was going to be attempted in the country.
While similar type world vintage machine record attempts have been made in the Cooley Peninsula, this will be the first of its kind solely dedicated to old Ferguson tractors.
“We’re hopeful of having over 400 vintage Ferguson tractors cultivating in one field at the same time,” Mr Robb told the Donegal News.
“The tractors can be all types of Ferguson such as Massey Ferguson, Ferguson Brown and Ferguson grey diesel. I’ve got a Ferguson car from 1947,” Mr Robb added.
The committee are busy making preparations for the world record attempt.
“We’ve got a facebook page and t-shirts have been printed and the committee are spreading the word and making plans to make the world record attempt a success. As well as the world record attempt the plan is to have a massive vintage weekend around the event in Burt,” Mr Robb said.
The idea has all stemmed from a vintage run following the death of Alan’s uncle, Robbie Robb, over 11 years ago.
“We had a vintage rally on his anniversary, but to coincide with the tenth anniversary a group of us drove five vintage tractors from Dublin to Donegal over three days.
“The vintage tractors had no cabs, and my tractor didn’t even have a seat. We slept in tents along the road, but it was all worth it for charity. My uncle, Robbie, was a big vintage tractor man and he travelled with his friend, Robbie Porter all over the country to attend events,” he added.
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