2024 Sports Awards Winners

Winner of the Ford New Zealand Rural Sports Supreme Award and the PTS New Zealand Rural Sportsman of the Year

Jack Jordan from Taumarunui

Jack’s a dynamic force in the world of wood chopping. At 27, his list of achievements is nothing short of remarkable. His crowning moment came at the Stihl World Champions Trophy in 2023, where he emerged as the champion, shattering the world record.

Jack also clinched the World Title in the Underhand 15-inch Chop event, outperforming competitors from 13 countries. Last year, he won this award alongside the Supreme Rural Sportsperson of the Year award. His journey to victory was arduous, navigating through knockout rounds with precision and skill.

Jordan’s achievements reflect the pinnacle of excellence in this global arena, with numerous world titles under his belt. Looking ahead, Jack’s ambitions remain lofty. He aims to reclaim the 375mm World Title Underhand Championship at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and defend his World Trophy in 2024. Additionally, he seeks to secure victory in the New Zealand Stihl Title and the World Individual World Championship, showcasing his unwavering determination and commitment to excellence.

Beyond the realm of wood chopping, Jack leads a multifaceted life. An avid hunter, he indulges in pig hunting and stalking stags. His athletic prowess extends beyond wood chopping, as evidenced by his rugby career with the Taranaki Bulls and participation in the Chiefs Training Camp. Jack also manages a sizable sheep and beef farm, balancing his passion for competition with his responsibilities as a farmer.

Winner of the RX Plastics New Zealand Rural Sportswoman of the Year Award

Anne Paterson, expat now from Blackbutt Queensland; Timbersports

Anne’s wood chopping prowess has earned her national and international accolades. In 2023, she emerged as the Champion of the Stihl New Zealand Women’s Championship and secured a commendable 4th place in the Stihl World Women’s Cup held in the Netherlands. Anne’s remarkable performances in these prestigious competitions demonstrate her skill and dedication to the sport. Competing against athletes from nine countries in the Stihl World Women’s Cup, the 32 year-old showcased her talent in three disciplines: Stock Saw, Single Saw, and Underhand. Her impressive times in each discipline underscore her competitive spirit and ability to excel globally, setting new standards for women in wood chopping.

Anne’s achievements extend beyond her recent successes, including titles such as the Australian Women’s Single Saw Champion and the Queensland Women’s Champion of Champions Trophy Winner for the 2022/2023 season. With numerous Queensland titles to her name, Anne’s track record exemplifies her standing as a formidable competitor. Looking ahead, Anne aims to reclaim the Stihl New Zealand Women’s Championship title to qualify for the 2024 Stihl World Women’s Cup.

Additionally, she harbours aspirations of securing the Single Saw Women’s Championship at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in 2024, highlighting her continued pursuit of excellence in the sport. Outside of wood chopping, Anne enjoys spending quality time with friends and family and indulging in outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and travelling.

Future Post Rural Sportsperson with a Disability Winner

Grant Calder from Lauder Station in Central Otago – Sheep Dog Trials

At 76, Grant exemplifies resilience and dedication within the world of sheepdog trials. Despite facing physical constraints due to a life-altering injury which left him as a tetraplegic, Grant’s commitment to the sport remains unwavering, helped by a modified all-terrain vehicle.

Last year, the St Bathan’s Collie Club (in its 100th year) recognised him as a Life Member, an honour that underscores his profound impact on the community. Grant’s innovative approach to training, including establishing an elite group and organising mock trials, has nurtured young talent and enhanced the competitiveness of the sport locally. His three New Zealand titles, earned before his injury, attest to his skill and dedication. Sheepdog trials in New Zealand are renowned for their rigour, with hundreds of competitors vying for top honours.

Both as a competitor and mentor, Grant’s involvement has left an indelible mark on the sport’s landscape. His achievements extend beyond accolades, encompassing mentorship, breeding, and advocacy. Grant’s resilience extends beyond the arena, as evidenced by his community service initiatives. From organising snow-raking teams during a big snow event in 2013 to facilitating historical education programs, Grant’s impact transcends the boundaries of sheepdog trials. His dedication to the community and embodiment of the spirit of rural sportsmanship and resilience are commendable.

Grant Calder’s journey is one of triumph over adversity, epitomising the ethos of rural sportsmanship. His legacy, characterised by dedication, innovation, and service, serves as an inspiration to all.

Winner of the Fonterra Young New Zealand Rural Sportsperson of the Year

Clay Harris from Mokauiti in the King Country; Shearing

Clay has an impressive track record of success. In the 2022-2023 season, Clay competed in 13 finals and emerged victorious in 10—an extraordinary feat that highlights his exceptional shearing prowess. Notably, he secured four consecutive wins at prestigious events, including the Otago Shears, Southern Shears, Golden Shears, and New Zealand Shears—a remarkable achievement rarely witnessed in the sport’s history. His dominance extended internationally, clinching victories in the UK and achieving commendable results in Australia.

Throughout his career, the 21 year-old has consistently faced off against the top up-and-coming shearers, showcasing his ability to thrive in highly competitive environments. Events like the Golden Shears, revered as the pinnacle for Senior-class shearers globally, serve as platforms for Clay to demonstrate his talent and determination. Clay’s journey in shearing sports began as a junior competitor in 2019, gradually ascending through the ranks with notable victories in the Junior and Intermediate classes. His consistent success and dedication to his craft have positioned him as one of the sport’s most promising talents.

With aspirations of joining the ranks of Open-class shearers, Clay harbours ambitions of setting a World record and, outside of shearing, is an avid hunter.

Freebairn & Hehir Lawyers Contribution Award Winners

Nigel Armstrong of Christchurch; Harness Racing

Nigel’s contribution spans various facets, from his ubiquitous presence at Canterbury’s racetracks to his innovative endeavours in harnessing the power of social media for the sport’s promotion. Through his widely acclaimed Facebook page, Harness Unhinged, Nigel garners over 500,000 monthly views with engaging video content, spotlighting the victories of owners and trainers alongside insightful race previews like the weekly Woodend Beach report.

His initiative with Westview Racing Syndicates has democratised ownership, drawing hundreds into the sport through shared ownership opportunities. Notably, Nigel’s involvement with the Methven Trotting Club committee and the presidency of the Canterbury Trotting Owners Association underscores his deep-seated commitment to the sport’s welfare and community. His efforts as an unpaid promoter have earned him widespread respect and recognition within the industry. Nigel distinguishes himself in a saturated social media landscape with captivating content that resonates with a broad audience.

His syndicates, amid stiff competition, thrive due to his reputation for integrity and inclusivity. Nigel’s social media prowess serves as a catalyst for harness racing’s visibility, reaching audiences far beyond Canterbury. His initiatives attract newcomers, crucial for the sport’s longevity and growth. Years of dedicated work have propelled Nigel’s endeavours, gradually building momentum for his syndicates and Harness Unhinged to reach their current levels of influence.

Nigel’s ambitions include expanding syndicate membership to 1,000 and doubling monthly views to 1 million, all while championing the unsung heroes of harness racing. Beyond harness racing, Nigel plays golf, has a commendable handicap of 14, and has completed several half marathons. He also manages his own paint business, showcasing his versatility and industrious spirit.

Bronwyn Troon of Taihape; Gumboot Throwing

Bronwyn is a stalwart of the Gumboot Throwing community, and her contributions are indispensable to the sport’s smooth functioning and growth. Bronwyn’s role as the organiser and overseer of registration tables at major events across New Zealand is pivotal. Her meticulous attention ensures that participants from ages 2 to 92 are efficiently logged in, a task that can prove stressful amidst the constant influx of eager throwers.

Bronwyn’s involvement spans over two decades, marked by her consistent dedication to facilitating the sport’s national and global reach. Notably, she secured a silver medal in her age category at the 2019 World Championships, a testament to her personal commitment alongside her organisational duties.

Beyond the gumboot arena, Bronwyn’s community engagement is profound. She spearheaded the establishment of the Breakfast Club at Taihape Area School, showcasing her altruism and dedication to local youth. Additionally, her involvement with the Heart Foundation Heart Appeal and leadership in the Taihape Community Badminton Club underscore her multifaceted contributions beyond sport.

Bronwyn’s impact extends beyond accolades, embodying the spirit of volunteerism and community support. Her efficient coordination and unwavering commitment make her a linchpin within the NZBTA and a cherished asset to the wider Taihape community.

Erana Stevens-Tulip of Te Kuiti; Shearing Sports

Erana is a beacon of leadership within Shearing Sports, showcasing unparalleled dedication and expertise in her multifaceted role. As a cornerstone of the New Zealand Shearing Championships committee, Erana’s achievements reverberate across various domains, from financial stewardship to cultural inclusivity. Her adept leadership style, characterised by guidance and support, was pivotal in nurturing a new executive committee through their transitional phase, ensuring continuity and operational excellence.

Notably, her adept navigation of funding systems secured substantial resources, totalling $60,000 in 2023 and over $300,000 pre-COVID, underscoring her acumen in financial management. Erana’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment is evident through her instrumental role in implementing the first bullying and harassment policy for the New Zealand Shearing Championships. This policy, integrated into the entry forms, showcases the committee’s unwavering stance against all forms of misconduct, fostering a safe and supportive atmosphere for competitors, judges, officials, and volunteers.

Moreover, Erana spearheaded the integration of the Te Reo Maori strategy, facilitating cultural appreciation and competency among committee members. Her dedication to process optimisation, exemplified through the transition to cloud-computing systems for data management, showcases her forward-thinking approach and commitment to operational efficiency. Beyond her contributions to Shearing Sports, Erana’s impact extends to her local community, where she actively participates in extramural studies and engages as a member of the local bowling club. Her diverse skill set and unwavering commitment exemplify the vital role of volunteer committees in fostering inclusivity and excellence within sports organisations.

As she prepares to transition to another district, Erana remains committed to leveraging her leadership by supporting and benefitting other organisations, cementing her legacy as a gracious expert and safe pair of hands within Shearing Sports and beyond.

Courtesy Ford Lifetime Legacy Award Winners

Pat Hellier of Papamoa (previously Kamo); Highland Games

Pat is the King of New Zealand Highland Games; he epitomises sporting excellence and unwavering dedication, leaving an indelible mark on both Highland Games and Athletics. His illustrious career spans decades, marked by remarkable achievements as an athlete, coach, and judge. Pat’s dominance is unparalleled in the Highland Games arena, securing an astounding 18 New Zealand Heavy Events Championships at the Waipu Highland Games, surpassing the legendary Bill Anderson MBE.

His 17 consecutive national titles from 1988 to 2013 and a triumphant return in 2016 solidified his status as the undisputed King of New Zealand Highland Games. Beyond national borders, Pat’s prowess extends globally, with notable victories, including the World Caber Champion title and impressive performances at international championships.

In Athletics, Pat’s accomplishments are equally extraordinary, boasting six NZ Senior National Championships for Shot Put, three for Discus, and three for Hammer. His coaching contributions further underscore his legacy, guiding athletes at prestigious events like the Olympic Games and Commonwealth Youth Championships.

Outside of sports, Pat’s dedication to public service during his 15-year tenure as a Police Officer exemplifies his commitment to community and excellence. For over a decade, he was Dame Valerie Adams’s, training partner. Pat’s enduring impact transcends mere records; it embodies the values of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication. His influence resonates as he continues to mentor, coach, and judge, inspiring generations to pursue greatness and leave their own lasting legacies.

Wayne Newdick of Taumarunui; Fencing

Wayne stands as a towering figure in the world of fencing, his expertise and dedication leaving an indelible mark on the sport. With a rich history of competitions dating back to 1980, Wayne’s passion for fencing quickly evolved into a lifelong commitment.

Renowned as a “Guru” among fellow competitors, Wayne’s workshop became a hub of innovation, where he crafted tools and shared invaluable knowledge with aspiring fencers. Beyond his personal achievements, Wayne’s impact extends to the wider fencing community. He was pivotal in establishing the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand (FCANZ) in 2002, a significant milestone that has since grown into a respected industry organisation.

Additionally, his involvement in forming New Zealand Fencing Competitions (NZFC) in 2013 underscores his commitment to advancing the sport at a national level. Wayne’s contributions transcend competition; he is a mentor, coach, and advocate for best practices in fencing. His fencing demonstrations and coaching sessions, spanning from National Fieldays to the hills of the King Country, have inspired countless individuals to hone their skills and embrace the craft.

Wayne’s dedication to excellence is evident in his relentless pursuit of innovation, from developing post-driver machines to pioneering tools for judging discrepancies in fencing. With accolades, including ten victories in the Silver Spades doubles championship and a record-setting battening feat, Wayne’s legacy is firmly entrenched in the annals of fencing history.

His impact reverberates across generations of fencers, embodying the spirit of mentorship, innovation, and community within the sport.