Farmfest’s first-ever skid steer rodeo

Any skid steer enthusiasts can showcase their abilities this August at Farmfest’s brand-new Skid Steer Rodeo, happening daily from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on 7th Street of the showgrounds.

Designed as both an equipment demo and crowd-pleaser, the rodeo challenges contestants to navigate a timed obstacle course in a skid loader, completing tasks like maneuvering around cones and lifting hay bales. It’s all about accuracy and control, but the fastest time wins.

“This is the first year we’re offering the Skid Steer Rodeo,” said Niki Jones, marketing director for IDEAg, which puts on Farmfest. “It gives attendees a chance to operate machines and show what they can do.”

Equipment is provided on-site by companies including Kibble Equipment, Prime Attachments, Ziegler Ag Equipment, and Sanco Equipment, who will offer quick tutorials and talk through the machine features before each run.

To enter, participants must hold a valid driver’s license and have some prior experience operating machinery. Space is limited due to time constraints, and entries will be accepted on-site until full.

While there are no formal divisions or pro categories, every competitor gets the same challenge: complete the course as quickly as possible using a provided skid steer, typically equipped with standard forks or buckets.

Winners will earn serious bragging rights and possibly a small prize, though the spotlight is firmly on the experience itself.

“It’s a great way to get people talking about the equipment and how it can help on their farms,” said Jones.

For spectators, the event promises action, skill and plenty of laughs. The course will be roped off for safety, and each driver will be securely seated inside the enclosed cab.

“We’re always looking for ways to make Farmfest more interactive,” Jones said. “This event came from internal planning and conversations with our advisory committee. It’s a community idea brought to life.”

Farmfest runs Aug. 5-7 near Morgan, Minnesota. Find tickets and show details at www.farmfest.com.