A Fair to Remember!

Following this year’s county fair, which ran throughout last week, the fair board members, according to Jonathon Marks, are already thinking forward to next year.

“We start planning for the next fair as soon as this one is over,” said Marks at the beginning of the fair last week. Marks is serving as the board’s president.

And the fair is no stranger to rainy weather. On what would be the largest night of the fair, the Painted Pony Championship Rodeo on Tuesday, a hard rain came down for the duration of the show. But that didn’t steer away the crowd as the grandstands on the south side are covered.

For the show, the horsemen and women, and the athlete animals were able to weather the storm and deliver a traditional rodeo for all to enjoy. 

Again on Wednesday, rain came down on the demolition derby throughout much of the show. But with the new arena, Jacob Elsbree, who was reporting from the derby that evening, noted that it made for a more exciting derby.

In one of his reports from the derby on Wednesday, Elsbree shared that the large square field allowed for some drivers to play cat and mouse before delivering the final blow. “The new stands were packed despite the rain that started during the second heat,” he reported.

First up came the Junk Run on Wednesday where Frank Swansbrough took home the $1,000 check. The other four heats were won in order by Jamie Browne, Fred Craft, Austin Judson, and Roger Walburn. 

Demolition Derby action continued again on Thursday; and Friday evening offered even more derby action with the Power Wheels, V8 Stock, V8 Modified, 4 Cyl Stock, 4 Cyl Modified, and 4 Cyl Feature. According to Marks, Friday was also a record night for attendance!

Entertainment was also offered throughout the fair. With Baywings Falconry on hand, a petting zoo, animal adventure and a host of other activities, there was something to do for everyone. 

This year also featured entertainment on the Agricultural Stage with the performance by Hot Dogs & Gin on Saturday closing out the music entertainment. Gene Hummel from Hummel’s Jug and “Ain’t Got Nun” performed earlier in the week, and near the beer and wine tent hosted by Aaron and Stacy Riegel from The Rainbow Trail.

Over in the 4H area, visitors were able to take a look at the animals on exhibit; and for a meal, guests could browse through the 4H Dairy Barn while grabbing a bite to eat.

And of course, the pay one price gate admission offered guests access to some of the best shows and the wildest rides, offered by Gillette Shows.

To learn more about the Tioga County Fair, or how you can get involved in next year’s fair by becoming a volunteer, visit www.tiogacofair.com.

To view more photos from the fair, and for a recap of the coverage we offered our readers throughout the week, visit us here, or follow us on Facebook.