The Union County Heritage Festival Olympics delivered another exciting round of competition on October 5, 2024, with folks showing off their skills in a series of traditional contests. Sixty-five participants of all ages participated in the event. The event featured the Nail Driving Contest, Feed Bag Toss, and Skillet Toss, where winners emerged after intense battles for the top spots.
Nail Driving Contest
Samuel Pickens hammered his way to first place in the Nail Driving Contest, edging out other competitors with precision and patience.   Virginia Firkin came in second, securing her place on the podium with a strong effort.
Feed Bag Toss
In the Feed Bag Toss, Joshua Gupton stole the show with an impressive toss of 23 feet, 6 inches, securing first place. Ed Thomas followed in second with a respectable throw of 16 feet, 2 inches.
Skillet Toss
The Skillet Toss featured two divisions. In Division 1, Hailey Martin claimed victory with a massive toss of 59 feet, 10 inches, just beating out Elizabeth Tindell, who finished a close second with a throw of 59 feet, 5 inches.
In the Seasoned Division, Sue Sewing took first place with a strong toss of 55 feet, while Linda Myers came in second, reaching 38 feet, 3 inches.
 
Organizing and overseeing the Olympics was Shannon DeWitt, Union County Extension Agent. A&B Bookkeeping sponsored the event. With thrilling contests and standout performances, this year’s Heritage Festival Olympics continued to celebrate the spirit of competition and community tradition. Plan to participate in next year's Heritage Festival on October 4, 2025.