Rural Heritage December 2025/January 2026

Autumn Turnbull with one of the pulling teams.

oxen used in 4-H are worked on a cart and a stone boat. I asked Tracy where she saw herself in 10 years and what direction oxen will take in the future. Tracy said in 10 years she hopes to be walking. She will soon need a double knee replacement. Like any physical sport, pulling oxen has been hard on her body. She was serious when she replied about the future of oxen. Tracy said, “I’m not sure how long oxen pulls will continue. The public doesn’t understand it.”

In my research I’ve found that there are rules governing contests. These rules state that an animal can only be hit two times while they are in motion during a hitch, with a third strike disqualifying them, but these rules are not always enforced. Some teamsters also hit their oxen in the head during a pull, which adds to poor public perception and could lead to the end of the sport. Tracy Allen is knowledgeable and inspiring. What I admire about Tracy is her humility. She is

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