By Matthew Strader

Daryl Hostrawser is going to the world championships.

Hostrawser comes by it honestly. His grandfather George excelled in 1904, his Uncle George served as a coach at the inaugural World Ploughing Championship in 1953, and his father Bill won Ontario’s championship in 1962 and competed globally in 1964.

Daryl himself has been the provincial champion eight times in two classes and has participated in three World Ploughing Championships. Although retired from dairy farming, he continues to practice on his farm, utilizing vintage equipment to refine his skills.

He emphasizes the art and science of plowing, striving for efficiency and soil conservation. While no-till methods are favoured for their cost benefits, Hogstraswer prefers traditional techniques, appreciating the craftsmanship involved despite the lack of financial rewards in competitions.

International competition presents unique challenges. European competitors often benefit from more practice opportunities due to favourable weather conditions and frequent local contests. Hostrawser acknowledges the difficulty for Canadians to achieve top rankings at the world championships but fondly recalls his seventh-place finish in Iowa in 1988.

To him, competitive plowing is about more than merely winning trophies. It celebrates craftsmanship, soil stewardship, and international camaraderie. He values the relationships built over decades and enjoys promoting proper tillage techniques to various audiences, whether at small gatherings in Canada or before enthusiastic crowds in Europe. His dedication to detail—measuring, adjusting, and perfecting each furrow—distinguishes him as one of the leading figures in the field of competitive plowing.

Accomplishments:

  • Provincial champion eight times in two classes
  • Competed in three World Ploughing Championships
  • A seventh-place finish in the Iowa World Ploughing Championship in 1988

“To represent Peel and Dufferin does mean a lot,” Hostrawser said. “They’ve been a strong local committee for a long time, and kept the plowing traditions alive. It means a lot to represent them.”

The Peel Dufferin Plowmen’s Association is hosting a “Road to the Worlds” fundraiser for Hostrawser on Sunday, October 19.

The actual time is to be determined, but it will go off at the Orangeville Fairgrounds at 247090 Side Road 5, Mono. Sponsorship opportunities are available and tickets will be available for sale.

As details are finalized, they will be posted on Facebook: Peel Dufferin Plowmen’s Association

Follow the organization on social media, get involved and help send Hostrawser to the world.