Kenny Sanders & Jason Skillen | Innovation, Rivalries, and the Early Days of Tractor Pulling

In this episode of Breaking Barriers, host Gary Bontrager welcomes back Kenny Sanders alongside tractor pulling historian Jason Skillen for a deep dive into the innovation, personalities, and pivotal moments that shaped an unforgettable era of the sport.Kenny shares firsthand stories from his early days in light super stock pulling—breaking down how tractors were built, modified, and refined through trial and error long before modern data and dynos existed. Jason provides historical context throughout the conversation, connecting Kenny’s experiences to the broader evolution of tractor pulling across Iowa and the Midwest.The conversation explores:Early county fair pulls and the roots of competitive tractor pullingBuilding winning machines through experimentation, ingenuity, and late-night shop workIconic tracks, rivalries, and memorable moments from Elkhorn, Tomah, Louisville, and beyondThe transition from diesel to alcohol and how rule changes reshaped the sportWhy preserving the stories of pullers and innovators matters for future generationsThis episode blends personal storytelling with historical insight, making it essential listening for tractor pulling fans, competitors, and anyone who values the legacy behind the machines.🎧 New episodes drop regularly—subscribe and help keep the history of the sport alive.