The National Tractor Pulling Championships is proudly promoted by the Northwestern Ohio Tractor Pullers Association (NWOTPA)—known throughout the pulling world as The Blue Shirts and recognized as the driving force behind one of the premier motorsports events in the country.

Founded in 1962 as the Wood County Tractor Pullers, the organization began with just 20 local members and a shared passion for competition, innovation, and community. More than six decades later, that same spirit continues to define everything they do.

In those early days, tractor pulling looked a little different. One of the first “speed pull” formats featured a custom flat-bottom sled with men lined along both sides of the track, stepping onto the moving sled to create resistance as tractors raced past. While creative, the format proved as chaotic as it sounds—and the sport quickly evolved.

Today, those humble beginnings have grown into a nationally recognized championship weekend welcoming approximately 65,000 fans, awarding more than $300,000 in purse money and contingency prizes, and showcasing the very best in tractor pulling competition.

What truly sets NTPC apart is the team behind it.

Led by a board of nine directors and supported by a membership capped at 225, The Blue Shirts are a fully volunteer-driven organization responsible for every aspect of the event. From track construction and electrical infrastructure to sponsorships, ticketing, food service, media relations, security, and countless behind-the-scenes details, this team builds the championship from the ground up each year.

They come from farms, towns, cities, and all walks of life—but they share one mission:

To bring you the best show they know how.