Mars Won Topeka Charity Truck Pull Event

The competitive event raised funds for a local pantry through team-based truck pulling.

Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Trucks

Bold vector editorial illustration of an industrial truck attached to a heavy rope, representing a community charity event in Topeka. — The Mars team secured victory at the annual truck pull competition in Topeka, raising funds for the Be Filled of South Topeka pantry. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should local businesses engage in competitive charity events to support community food pantries?

Mars claimed victory at an annual truck pull competition held at the Kansas National Guard Museum in Topeka. Teams of 10 competed to pull a Harvesters truck to raise money for the Be Filled of South Topeka pantry.

Why it matters

The event serves as a critical fundraiser for the Be Filled of South Topeka food and clothing pantry, which relies on community engagement to support its operations.

Teams paid a $1,000 registration fee to enter the competition. The event lasted three hours, running from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The players

Mars

Mars is a global manufacturer of confectionery, pet food, and other food products.

Advisors Excel

Advisors Excel is a financial services company headquartered in Topeka, Kansas.

Be Filled of South Topeka

Be Filled of South Topeka is a community organization that operates a food and clothing pantry.

The details

Participants were tasked with pulling a Harvesters truck, with the winning team determined by the fastest and farthest pull distance. Following the competition, the event featured a breakfast sponsored by Perkins.

The event was held on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
Activities took place from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

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Roadmap

Corporate-sponsored community challenges reflect a growing trend of local businesses engaging in regional philanthropy through team-building activities. This event follows the established pattern of corporate-sponsored community philanthropy events seen in mid-sized U.S. cities.

Local residents and business teams can participate in future iterations of this event by forming 10-person groups and paying the $1,000 entry fee. The event provides a direct way for businesses in Topeka to support local food and clothing distribution.

The takeaway

Engaging in community-based competitive events offers a unique way for local organizations to foster teamwork while providing financial support for neighbors in need. Interested companies should plan for the registration costs and team requirements well in advance of next year's event.