Although it was not a hot Sunday afternoon, the competitors worked up quite a sweat at the 40th annual National Railsplitting Contest at the Logan County Fairgrounds.

Sixteen competed for the title of champion. But in the end, only one could take that title home.
 

Pictures by Nila Smith

Different strokes for different folks.

The "youngster" gets a little advice from a seasoned professional.

The first to finish, he's a little too tired to join in the happy dance.

Judges verify that all the rails are properly split.

Abe congratulates Roy Usary, who came in fourth.

Abe shakes the hand of Oliver Friedlein, who took third place.

Abe is delighted to give the second-place place check to Chris Friedlein.

And the best of the best at this year's competition: Cory Friedlein of Bloomington.

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