A smash hit at the Chesterville Fair
The demolition derby hosted by Ontario Demolition Derby was a smashing hit at the Chesterville Fair on Saturday evening. Pictured is the midsize smash where one of the vehicles billowed heavy smoke from the hood. Later in the evening, one event was called due to a fire in one of the cars. All participants made it out safely thanks to the quick reactions from the Chesterville firefighters who were vigilantly surveying the derby. The crowd enjoyed the exciting and lively derby making it one of the most popular attractions at the Fair.      Sawyer Helmer photo

Carolyn Thompson Goddard
Record Correspondent
CHESTERVILLE – There was plenty of sunshine and lots of fun for all ages at the 86th edition of the Chesterville Fair on Aug. 25, 26 and 27. Chesterville & District Agricultural Society President Carol Johnson was pleased with the Fair which had good weather, good attendance and good fun for people of all ages.

The Chesterville Fair was officially opened early in the evening on Fri., Aug. 25. Participants in the ceremony are pictured here, from left: CDAS Director Gord Johnson, North Dundas Deputy Mayor Gerry Boyce, North Dundas Mayor Eric Duncan, CDAS President Carol Johnson, CDAS Director Des Desarmia, SDSG MP Guy Lauzon, and MC Dan Gasser. Thompson-Goddard photo

Two-and-a-half-year-old Lucas from Chesterville enjoyed the midway at the Chesterville Fair on Sat., Aug. 26. Sawyer Helmer photo

Johnson thanked the many volunteers who gave their time over this past year and especially on the Fair weekend. She commented how overall, “This year’s Fair was a testament to what a community is all about,” and seemed pleased overall. She noted the Homecraft entries were down a bit but once again demonstrated the talent of community members.

The midway with rides and games of chance were designed to delight people of all ages. There was no lack of excitement on the fairgrounds with the popular truck pull, demo derby and tractor pull and, of course, numerous vendors as well as community organizations on site.

Therien Jiu-Jitsu students Thomas Buckle (in blue) and Kevin Anderson (in white) grapple during a Jiu-Jitsu demonstration at the Fair. Vetter photo

The Hunter Horse Competition returned to the Chesterville Fair, with CDAS President Carol Johnson commenting how she hopes to have the competition back again next year. Thompson-Goddard photo

Troy Patterson competed in the tractor pull at the Chesterville Fair on Sun., Aug. 26. Patterson completed a long pull down the grandstand lane for a sun- and fun-filled crowd. Sawyer Helmer photo

The Chesterville Fair began as an agricultural exhibition back in the 1930s and it still provides a venue for this important part of the local economy. This year, the Poultry Show returned to the Fair as did the Hunter Horse Show, the Youth Beef Show and the Grain and Hay Competition. The Western Horse Show scheduled for Saturday was cancelled due to field conditions but Johnson mentioned it will be returning in 2018.

During the opening ceremonies on Friday evening in the arena, Johnson expressed her hope that everyone who came to the Fair would enjoy it. The smiling faces that were evident during the Fair would certainly attest to the fact her hopes were realized.