Annual big rig challenge continues

ONAWAY, Mich. — Whether young or old, there’s a simple pleasure in watching really big machines do cool things.

For motor fans of all ages, the Onaway Speedway has something to scratch that itch.

This weekend is the fourth annual Great Lakes Big Rig Challenge. This international competition is the only Canadian–style big rig race in the US.

As such, it attracts plenty of Canadian truckers looking to go bumper–to–bumper with their American counterparts.

But what does Canadian-style mean?

Speedway owner Mike Surgill explains.

“It’s bob-tail semis with tractor-only. And we do a loaded class, so they pull loaded V-trains — double trailers with lumber on them. So the total for truck and trailer would be 140 thousand pounds per lane.”

In other words, the contest is less of a drag race and more of a pulling competition.

Surgill said nearly 70 trucks are registered for the competition.

The races begin Friday afternoon, May 28, and ends on May 30.

You can learn more on the Speedway’s website.