The YMCA of Eastern Ontario Annual Fire Truck Pull

A record $22,000 was raised in the YMCA of Eastern Ontario annual fire truck pull with eight teams participating in the event.

On October 17, eight teams participated in this year’s annual fire truck pull to raise a record-breaking $22,000. Rob Adams, the CEO of the YMCA of Eastern Ontario, said the event has become a community favorite with teams raising money for the Y and competing for bragging rights, year after year.

“The fire truck pull is part of our Annual Strong Communities Giving Campaign,” said Adams. “Each team pays a registration fee of $400, and the local fire department loans us a truck. Then teams of eight compete to pull the 60,000-pound truck 200 meters.”

Previously the event also offered a car pull for younger participants and a strong person contest. Due to the pandemic, this year’s event was altered to accommodate local public health requirements, including taking safety precautions such as staggered starts, distancing between teams, and wearing gloves and masks.

Adams said the record-breaking amount of money raised for this year’s event is contributed to a very supportive community.

“A very special member of the Brockville community, former mayor George E. Smith, passed away this year and his family generously allowed us to rename the event in his honor to recognize his contributions, both to the community, and his long-time support of the YMCA,” he said. “This brought a special feeling to the event and people wanted to recognize George. There is also a general recognition if charities are to continue to provide the programs they do, they need help during this time – I would say people showed up to demonstrate they value their Y.”

While times are currently very different and hosting an event during a pandemic is challenging, Adams suggested looking on the positive side and viewing this time as an opportunity to try new things.

“Earlier this year, we had a successful virtual event, not knowing how it would turn out,” he said. “You can’t be afraid to try. Having supporters who can reach out to their family and friends to grow broader support is also important and we are fortunate to have Burnbrae Farms as one of our biggest ambassadors and event sponsors.”