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With the 2025 San Benito County Fair coming up, longtime truck pull competitor Chad Arzie is ready for another round at Bolado Park.
Arzie grew up watching his dad compete at truck pulls and said he enjoys being a part of the community that has been built over the years.
“It’s getting harder physically but I still do it,” he said.
Arzie has a progressive neurological disorder that limits his movements and speech. He was able to walk until 2011.
For the last few years, his friend Larry Lopes has helped with the truck. Together they make the technical decisions on how to set it up, but during the event, Arzie is on his own once he’s on the track. While Arzie is driving, Lopes is responsible for the kill switch, an extra safety measure that allows him to remotely shut the truck off in case of an emergency.
Lopes said, “It’s definitely all fun but you watch his face and in that 15 seconds, you can see in his eyes, it is truly all business.”
In 2024, Arzie took home first place in the 4500 Super Stock and will be competing in the same class on Oct. 5.
“Being a part of the pulling community is great. Everyone helps everyone, shares parts, etc., like a family.”
Chad Arzie
“Win, lose or draw he’s the happiest one out there.”
Larry Lopes
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