Justin Bavar was practically raised on a tractor. So, perhaps it’s no surprise that he has earned a spot in the Alabama FFA Safe Tractor Driving Contest in June.

Bavar placed first in the county’s Senior Tractor Driving competition and went on to win first place at district, where he competed among students from 35 Central Alabama schools.

“It’s going to be pretty fun,” said the Chilton County High School sophomore, looking forward to the state competition at Auburn High School on June 1.

Bavar grew up on his parents’ small farm, where he helped raise cattle, horses and other animals. Before he was old enough to drive a tractor on his own, he would sit on his dad’s lap and become familiar with the controls.

As a teenager, Bavar is making the most of his agricultural background.

“For this young man, this is something he does every day after school,” said CCHS agriscience instructor Marlon Harton. “Safe tractor operation is something he’s being taught at home, and FFA allows him an opportunity to use and demonstrate those skills through safe competition.”

The FFA Safe Tractor Driving Contest teaches advanced safety, skills and efficiency in the operation of tractors. Competitors must maneuver through an obstacle course, which they must complete within a maximum time of 15 minutes with as many points as possible. Points are deducted for failure to clear obstacles, failure to maintain a consistent speed, and failure to observe proper safety, among other things.

The state level also includes a written exam, which tests students’ knowledge of tractor parts and other items.

The contest coincides with the 81st Annual Alabama FFA Convention to be held June 1-4 in Montgomery.

Bavar is the son of Allen and Kim Bavar of Clanton.