Little knees were bouncing up and down while the grating sound of a miniature metal sleigh followed behind the little green tractor powered by youth ages 12 and younger at the 148th Moniteau County Fair.
Some of the 73 riders in the Kiddie Tractor Pull were determined - gritting their teeth, grunting when the weight became too much and even hopping and jerking to gain a few more inches.
Other riders weren't as committed - smiling for pictures, swerving on the concrete track or simply daydreaming while the pedaling was light.
The Kiddie Tractor Pull has been part of the Moniteau County Fair for more than 20 years. The Pilot Grove FFA Alumni have provided the tractors and sleighs for the entire time.
After the first year's pull in the Sappington Arena dirt, the fair poured a 100-feet concrete track, which now is one of the best tracks the Pilot Grove folks see in a season, said volunteer Miles Wolf.
The alumni traveled to 17 fairs and events last year with the specialty equipment. The group built its mechanical sled in 1982.
What they expected would be a few year fad has continued to provide fun and entertainment for youth across the state. They are certified, like what will be held at the state fair, however.
The organization works by donation. And one of its priorities is that each child receives something for their effort, Wolf said.
"Not everyone can get first, second or third," he said. "But everyone can participate."
At the Moniteau fair, riders were handed a coupon for free ice cream after they dismounted the miniature tractors.
The riders were divided into four weight divisions. The 0-49 pound entrants likely pulled about 90 pounds, whereas the 100 pounds and up group may have pulled as much as 400 pounds.
Top finishers this year in the lightest division were first Caleb Howard, second Katherine Rohrbach and third Heston Gatlin. In the 50-75 pounds division, it was first Brayden Hallford, second Kristyn Wetzig and third Hudson Clay.
Among the 76-100 pounds riders, Carter Petree was first, Ethan Bolinger second and Isabelle Rohrbach third. Placing in the heaviest weight class were first Peter Dampf, second Gauge Reynolds and third Garret Furgeson.
Even after 32 years, the Pilot Grove volunteers can't pick out the best puller by sight, Wolf said.
"The best puller has to have leg strength, coordination and willpower," he said.