CULLMAN, Ala. – On Saturday, April 25 at the Alabama Strawberry Festival, local titans united in a contest of strength, pulling a colossal John Deere tractor in support of The Willow Path, Cullman County’s domestic violence resource center.
The annual Pulling for Survivors pull event serves to raise funds for The Willow Path, which provides a wide range of services to individuals and families affected by domestic violence, including emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy and recovery support. After pulling a firetruck last year, competitors got to test their mettle by pulling a new beast, a tractor. This year, the turnout exceeded expectations.
“Our Tractor Pull brought the community together in a way we truly didn’t expect and we’re still in awe of the turnout, the energy and the support shown for The Willow Path,” said Executive Director Jessica Atchley. “From the very first pull to the final round, the crowd showed up strong, cheering on every team and creating an atmosphere that was nothing short of incredible.”
Teams of 10 were given the chance to begin the day with a practice pull, followed by two official pulls that would be combined for an overall score. Cullman Fire Rescue claimed the Fastest Pull, while Haven Counseling earned recognition for Most Team Spirit. The Slowest Pull, and one of the most fun to watch, was earned by the Cullman Elks Lodge.
“This event would not have been possible without the support of so many,” Atchley shared. “We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to TriGreen Equipment for sponsoring the tractor, as well as Cullman Parks and Recreation, Cullman Fire Rescue, Chambers Farm and Garden Supply, Haven Counseling, 3Sixty Jeep Club, United Way of Cullman County, Crooked Creek Band and The Cullman Elks Lodge for their help before, during and after the event.”
She added, “Most of all, thank you to our community. You showed up, you cheered loud and you helped make this event something truly special.”
For more information on The Willow Path, visit www.thewillowpath.org or contact Jessica Atchley at 256-775-2600 or jessica@thewillowpath.org.
