On November 1, 2024, the Latvian Ploughing Competition, organized by the Malnava College of the Latvian University of Life Sciences and Technologies (LBTU) in collaboration with the Latvian Ploughing Organization, showcased the strength of Latvia’s agricultural traditions and the advancement of modern technology.
In preparation for the competition, LBTU Malnava College students participated in ploughing training sessions. These sessions, led by the Chairman of the Latvian Ploughing Organization and World Ploughing Organization board member A. Laurinovičs, provided students with insights into the nuances of the farmer and mechanizer professions, ploughing skills, and various technical skills in preparing tractors and setting up ploughs.
Participants competed in three categories: conventional plough class, school and sports class, and folk class, demonstrating their mastery and vying for awards. The star of the competition was Kaspars Jarvala from Estonia, who triumphed in the conventional plough class. Jarvala, who secured 3rd place in last year’s World Ploughing Championships, showcased his high level of professionalism, achieving 1st place this time.
In the folk class, LBTU Malnava College’s 3rd-year student Rainers Šulbergs secured 3rd place, while LBTU Malnava College alumnus Aleksandrs Drozdovs claimed 1st place.
Competition Results by Class:
· Conventional Plough Class:
· 1st place: Kaspars Jarvala (Estonia);
· 2nd place: Raimond Lepiste (Estonia);
· 3rd place: Māris Jānis Zuments (Kandava Technical School).
· School and Sports Class:
· 1st place: Jānis Vaitkevičs (z/s “Mārtiņi”, Dobele Municipality);
· 2nd place: Dzintars Grosbārdis (Kandava Technical School).
· Folk Class:
· 1st place: Aleksandrs Drozdovs (SIA KMG Mežs, Ludza Municipality);
· 2nd place: Vilis Babāns (z/s “Riekstiņi”, Balvi Municipality);
· 3rd place: Rainers Šulbergs (LBTU Malnava College).
In addition to mechanized tractors and multi-furrow ploughs, visitors had the opportunity to demonstrate ploughing skills with horses and ploughs.
The “Latvijas Arāju Sacensības” tradition highlights the spirit of Latvian agriculture and strengthens the farming community, providing both experienced professionals and young enthusiasts the opportunity to share knowledge and skills essential for future challenges.
(Text and pics by Līga)
