High water forces Michigan college to move 122nd tug-of-war

Holland – High water along a west Michigan river has forced Hope College to move its annual tug-of-war contest for the first time in more than a century.

The Holland Sentinel reports the Pull traces its roots back to 1898 and the 122nd installment is Saturday. But instead of being held across the Black River the competition between the freshman and sophomore classes will take place along a Holland street.

The newspaper says the Pull has only been held in two locations, with teams competing across a stream in the early years.

The Pull’s staff adviser, Richard Frost, says “students agonized over this.” He says they’re dedicated to tradition but “mindful of the safety of the participants.”

Frost says the competition is expected to return to the Black River in the future.