2025 Rural Sports Award Finalists - Ford NZ Rural Sports Awards

RX Plastics New Zealand Rural Sportswoman of the Year Award

Steph Dryfhout

Tree Climbing

Age: 29
Hometown: Feilding

Steph Dryfhout, through her unwavering perseverance, has solidified her position as one of the world’s top tree climbers. Her victory in the 2024 ISA International Tree Climbing Championship, after double qualifying by triumphing in both the 2024 ISA Asia-Pacific Tree Climbing Championship and the 2023 New Zealand Tree Climbing Championship, is a testament to her dedication and passion for the sport.

The International Tree Climbing Championship features only the best competitors from around the globe. To qualify, climbers must win either their national title or a global regional championship. In 2024, Steph went head-to-head with 35 of the world’s elite female tree climbers, including six-time world champion Josephine Hedger (UK), proving her strength on the global stage.

Tree climbing is a growing sport in New Zealand and worldwide. New Zealand hosts four regional competitions annually alongside its national championship, which determines international representatives. The 2024 International Tree Climbing Championship in Savannah, Georgia, featured 94 of the world’s top climbers from 43 global chapters.

As the undefeated New Zealand women’s champion since 2018, Steph has represented New Zealand at four ITCC world championships, achieving 2nd place in 2019, 3rd in 2022, and 5th in 2023, before claiming the world title in 2024. She is also a two-time Asia-Pacific champion.

Looking forward, Steph’s goal is to win back-to-back world titles, particularly with the 2025 ITCC set to take place in New Zealand for the first time ever. Outside of tree climbing, she enjoys surfing and cooking and recently earned a Level 6 Diploma in Arboriculture.

Steph’s international achievements, unwavering determination, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure make her a deserving finalist for the RX Plastics New Zealand Rural Sportswoman of the Year award.

Catherine Mullooly

Shearing Sports

Age: 35
Hometown: Gisborne

Catherine Mullooly made history on January 7, 2024, by setting a new World Women’s Eight-Hour Strong Wool Ewes Shearing Record, shearing 465 ewes at Nukuhakari Station in the King Country. She maintained an incredible pace of 58 sheep per hour, breaking the previous record by 79 sheep and surpassing the existing nine-hour record tally within just eight hours.

Competing at the Open-class level, Catherine is one of the few female shearers in the world to reach this elite standard, a testament to her dedication and skill. Shearing remains a highly competitive global sport, with World Championships held every 2-4 years, attracting talent from over 30 countries. Female records have been set in New Zealand, Australia, and England, showcasing the sport’s international prominence.

Catherine is a former No.1-ranked lower grades shearer. She excelled in competitions up to the Senior level in New Zealand and the UK, often competing against her male counterparts and proving her talent on the global stage.

Looking ahead, Catherine focuses on family and farming while maintaining her passion for shearing. She also enjoys beach outings, fishing, gardening, and working with horses.

Catherine’s record-breaking achievement and perseverance make her a standout finalist for the RX Plastics New Zealand Rural Sportswoman of the Year award.

Samantha Ottley

Harness Racing

Age: 34
Hometown: Christchurch *formerly Geraldine

Sam Ottley made history in 2024, becoming the first female driver in New Zealand harness racing to reach 800 career wins and securing another milestone as the first female driver to achieve 100 wins in a single 12-month season. She ended the year with an impressive 108 wins and $1.3 million in stakes earnings.

Competing against the best drivers in the country, Sam ranked as the third most successful driver in 2024, behind only Blair Orange and John Dunn. Her Boxing Day triumph at Westport, where she claimed five wins in one day, was a defining moment of the season.

Harness Racing has a strong global presence, with New Zealand leading alongside Australia, North America, and Europe. Sam has cemented herself as a trailblazer in a traditionally male-dominated sport, setting records and paving the way for future generations.

As New Zealand’s most successful female harness racing driver, Sam’s career total now stands at 827 wins, and she has set her sights on becoming the first female driver in New Zealand to reach 1,000 career wins.

With an unmatched work ethic, consistency, and groundbreaking achievements, Sam Ottley is a worthy finalist for the RX Plastics New Zealand Rural Sportswoman of the Year award.

PTS Logistics New Zealand Rural Sportsman of the Year Finalists

Jack Jordan

Wood Chopping

Age: 28
Hometown: Taumarunui

Jack Jordan’s unwavering dedication has propelled him to the forefront of the woodchopping world. His third consecutive Stihl World Champions Trophy win in 2024, where he set a new world record of 52.53 seconds in Milan, Italy, is a testament to his commitment. This victory solidified his dominance in endurance woodchopping, a discipline that demands competitors to complete four disciplines back-to-back.

Jack’s success extends beyond the Champion’s Trophy win. He finished second in the Stihl Individual World Championship held in Toulouse, France, a remarkable feat that saw him accumulate 61 points across six disciplines. His contribution to New Zealand’s fourth-place finish in the Team World Championship, serving as the underhand cutter, is a source of pride for his country.

Jack continues to excel nationally, winning the David Bolstad Memorial World Title in the underhand chop at the Rotorua A&P Show in 2023. He was first selected for international competition at just 14 years old and has since accumulated 13 world titles, including ten individual wins and three team victories.

Beyond woodchopping, Jack is a dedicated farmer, managing a 4,000-acre sheep and beef farm near Taumarunui. His rugby background saw him play for the Taranaki Bulls and train with the Chiefs. A keen hunter, he balances his professional and sporting commitments with a passion for the outdoors.

Jack’s future is filled with exciting challenges and ambitious goals. He aims to reclaim the 375mm World Title Underhand Championship at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and defend his World Trophy title in 2025. These goals, if achieved, will further cement his place as one of New Zealand’s finest athletes.

Tim Garrick

fencing

Age: 30
Hometown: Gisborne

Tim Garrick has rapidly risen through the ranks of competitive fencing, securing multiple national and regional titles. In 2024, he won the prestigious Golden Pliers by WIREMARK National Singles Championship and the Nick Liefting Speed Trophy for being the first off the line. Additionally, he claimed victories in the Fieldays Silver Spades National Doubles Championship and the Future Post NZ Rural Games Speed Fencing Championship.

Tim has consistently excelled in regional competitions, securing doubles wins in King Country, Hawke’s Bay, and Gisborne alongside partner Cory Twigley. His leadership in the sport is evident through his role as Chairman of NZ Fencing Competitions (NZFC) for the past two years.

Beyond competition, Tim runs T Garrick Fencing, serves as an ambassador for the sport, and is a key organiser of fencing events. His future goals, which include continuing to win at the highest level and mentoring new competitors, promise an exciting future for the sport.

Blair Orange

Harness Racing

Age: 46
Hometown: Rolleston

Blair Orange is a force to be reckoned with in harness racing. In 2024 he clinched his seventh consecutive driving premiership! He reached new heights, with nearly 200 race wins and over $3.5 million in stakes earnings. His victories in prestigious events like the New Zealand Trotting Free For All, the Hannon Memorial, and the South Bay Trotters Cup at Kaikoura, are a testament to his exceptional skill and determination.

Blair, known for his unwavering work ethic, competes nationwide, from Southland to Auckland, and remains the benchmark for drivers in New Zealand. His total of 196 wins from 1,289 drives in 2024 is a testament to his dedication and unwavering consistency at the top level, inspiring others in the sport.

Harness racing enjoys strong national and international recognition, with elite competitors from New Zealand, Australia, North America, and Europe. Blair has repeatedly proven himself against the best, cementing his reputation as the premier driver in the country.

Blair Orange’s contributions extend beyond the racetrack. As a Blue September Ambassador, he plays a crucial role in raising awareness and funds for the New Zealand Prostate Cancer Foundation. His passion for the Warriors is also well-known, having played for Hornby and the New Zealand Under-18 team.

With 2,873 career wins under his belt, Blair is on the cusp of joining the exclusive 3,000-win club. This impending milestone will further solidify his status as one of New Zealand’s greatest harness racing drivers, and his dominance, consistency, and dedication make him a strong contender for the New Zealand Rural Sportsman of the Year award.

The Fonterra Young New Zealand Rural Sportsperson of the Year Award

Rylee Ward

Rodeo

Hometown: Cambridge, formerly Central Hawke's Bay

Rylee Ward has made a name for himself in New Zealand rodeo, securing the NZRCA Open Bull Riding Champion title for the 2023/2024 season. His talent has taken him beyond national borders. He represented Queensland in the 2024 PBR Australian Monster Energy Origin Series, where he helped his team claim victory. He also finished 6th in the 2024 PBR Australia National Standings, proving his consistency and competitive ability on the international stage.

Bull riding is among the toughest and most dangerous sports, with competitors facing elite-level bulls recognized within PBR Australia and the NZRCA. Rylee has competed against the best, sharing the arena with top-ranked bull riders from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States.

Rylee’s journey in rodeo began early, securing multiple junior titles, including NZRCA Calf Riding and Steer Riding Championships, before progressing to the senior division. In 2022 and 2023, he claimed back-to-back NZRCA Open Bull Riding Championships, making him one of New Zealand’s most promising rodeo talents.

Looking ahead, Rylee is set on winning an Australian Bull Riding title while continuing to compete in the PBR Monster Energy Tour and PBR Teams Tour. He also aims to secure a third consecutive NZRCA Open Bull Riding Championship in 2024/2025.

Rylee is passionate about horseback riding and team roping outside the arena, incorporating these skills into his daily work. He believes riding horses enhances his bull riding ability, refining his balance and control.

With his determination, skill, and international success, Rylee Ward is a deserving finalist for The Fonterra Young New Zealand Rural Sportsperson of the Year Award.

Karaitiana Horne

Motocross

Hometown: Raetihi

At just 16 years old, Karaitiana Horne has already made a significant mark on the New Zealand motocross scene. In 2024, she secured three major titles—the NZ Open Women’s Motocross Championship, the NZ Junior Title, and the Australian Junior Title in Perth.

Her performances have been nothing short of spectacular. The Ruapehu College student competes against the best young motocross riders in New Zealand and Australia. She showcased sublime form throughout the NZ Senior and Junior Motocross Championships, proving her talent across multiple levels of competition. Timing was on her side this season, allowing her to race in senior and junior events due to turning 15 just in time for eligibility.

In addition to her national success, Karaitiana put in a strong showing at Himatangi, where she defended her junior women’s title and placed 7th in the 14-16 years 250cc class, racing against some of the country’s best young men.

Karaitiana dreams of competing internationally, following in the footsteps of four-time world champion Courtney Duncan. With a relentless work ethic, humility in victory, and aspirations to take on the world stage, she is an inspiration for young riders across New Zealand.

With her incredible talent, multiple national titles, and ambition to compete on the world stage, Karaitiana Horne is a worthy finalist for The Fonterra Young New Zealand Rural Sportsperson of the Year Award.

carter dalgety

harness racing

Hometown: West Melton

Carter Dalgety had a breakout year in 2024, making history as the fastest junior driver ever to reach 100 career wins and clinching his first Junior Drivers’ Premiership with 67 wins. His success came despite spending three months overseas after winning the $15,000 Valachi Downs Young Scholarship, which allowed him to train and race in the United States.

His international experience included a win at the Meadowlands in New Jersey and a winning treble in Philadelphia, further proving his talent on the global stage. Upon returning home, Carter secured two major Group 1 victories—the $100,000 Invercargill Cup and the $250,000 Auckland Cup—with Republican Party, a horse trained by his parents, Cran and Chrissie Dalgety.

Harness racing is a highly competitive global sport, and Carter has consistently proven himself against New Zealand’s best drivers, including Tony Herlihy, Maurice McKendry, and Ricky May. His dominance in the Junior Drivers’ Premiership solidified his place among the sport’s rising stars.

In 2025, Carter is set to compete in the Ultimate Driver Championship in Brisbane, going up against some of the world’s best, including Dexter Dunn and Yannick Gingras. He also plans to travel to Sweden, using his remaining scholarship funds to gain further international experience and witness the prestigious Elitloppet, the world’s greatest trotting race.

Carter’s long-term goals include winning 100 races in a single season, returning to race in the USA, and ultimately claiming the New Zealand Cup. Outside of racing, he follows rugby and other sports and runs his clothing label, Fuego.

With his record-breaking achievements, international success, and drive for excellence, Carter Dalgety is a deserving finalist for The Fonterra Young New Zealand Rural Sportsperson of the Year Award.

The Levno Outstanding Contribution to New Zealand Rural Sports Award

Eileen Smith - waimate

shearing

Eileen Smith is a shining star in the world of shearing. Her boundless passion for shearing and her commitment to her community make her a true standout. At 67 years old, Eileen is the energetic secretary and executive officer of the Waimate Spring Shears, a two-day event that takes place annually in South Canterbury and draws 150 competitors. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, she held the event successfully in 2021. Eileen also plays an active role in shearing sports at the regional and national levels, serving as secretary for the Shearing Sports New Zealand South Island committee and the National Shearing Circuit committee. Not only has Eileen contributed greatly to the sport of shearing, but she has also helped raise funds for a new multi-purpose venue. Her goal is to continue to drive the growth and success of the Waimate Spring Shears for years to come.

Deirdre bartlett - opake, wairarapa

sheepdog trials

Deirdre Bartlett is a true legend in the world of sheepdog trials. With her deep knowledge of breeding and her dedication to accuracy, she’s the perfect person to serve as the Keeper of the Stud Register. At 68 years old, Deirdre has a lifetime of experience in the sport and has been a competitive triallist since 1974. She’s also won four Wairarapa Top Dog awards! In 2001, the Opaki local took over the job of Stud Register and transformed it from a print register to a digital one. She created a spreadsheet of championship results dating back to 1911 and is now working on making the stud register available on a mobile app. This is just one example of her commitment to the sport and her dedication to making sheepdog trials better for everyone involved. In recognition of her hard work and achievements, Deirdre was awarded Life Membership of the New Zealand Sheep Dog Trial Association in 2021. When she’s not busy with sheepdog trials, Deirdre is also a talented Endurance horse racer. With all these accomplishments and more, it’s easy to see why Deirdre is such a beloved and respected figure in the world of sheepdog trials!

elizabeth mortland - taihape

gumboot throwing

Elizabeth Mortland is a true champion in the world of gumboot throwing! Her tireless efforts and enthusiasm for the sport have made a lasting impact and helped it grow and thrive in New Zealand. She has been the driving force behind the NZ Boot-throwing Association since 2009 and has been instrumental in organizing and coordinating various competitions and events. In 2014, Elizabeth established the New Zealand Boot-throwing Association as an Incorporated Society and has been serving on its board ever since. Under her leadership, the NZBTA became the 10th member country of the International Boot-throwing Association in 2015 and she was elected as its President in 2018, a position she still holds with grace and determination. Not only is Elizabeth dedicated to promoting gumboot throwing, but she’s also quite the thrower herself, having won silver and gold medals at World Championships in Italy, Finland, and Taihape. Elizabeth has been a key player in establishing the annual North Island, South Island, and New Zealand Championships, and she even played a role in getting Skellerup boots designated as the “official” gumboots for competitions. When she’s not throwing gumboots, Elizabeth enjoys gardening, kayaking, and giving back to her community through involvement in various committees

patsy shirley - lumsden

shearing

Patsy Shirley and her family are true champions of the wool industry, with a passion for shearing sports that spans a lifetime. They established the Northern Southland Community Shears in Lumsden in 2009, with a mission to keep the NZ Longwool Shearing and Wool Handling Championships thriving in Southland. Through Patsy’s tireless efforts, the event has grown into a two-day celebration, attracting over 200 entries each year, despite four changes of venue. The Lumsden local is the glue that holds it all together, a true “rock” who tirelessly works to make the Northern Southland Community Shears a success. Her dedication to her rural community and shearing is unwavering, and her future goals are simply “to retire, or if not, to keep going.” At 76 years young, Patsy Shirley is an inspiration to us all.

The Courtesy Ford Lifetime Legacy Award

Jason wynyard - Kawakawa

timbersports

Jason Wynyard MNZM | Ngāti Maniapoto and Ngāpuhi hails from Kawakawa and is a true icon in the wood-chopping world. Jason has been dominating the sport for over 30 years with a remarkable 230 Championships under his belt. This Kiwi champion started young, encouraged by his father, and has been unstoppable ever since. In 2017, the Queen acknowledged his incredible achievements and awarded him the New Zealand Order of Merit. At the Stihl Timbersport World Championships, Jason competes against the best woodchoppers worldwide, including Australia, France, and the USA. In 2022, he clinched the New Zealand Stihl Championship and placed 5th at the individual world championships in Gothenburg, Sweden. Jason’s success speaks volumes about his love for the sport and unwavering dedication to excellence. In 2023, Jason sets his sights on the ultimate goal: winning the Stihl TIMBERSPORTS® World Championship in Stuttgart, Germany. He enjoys exploring the great outdoors, fishing, and diving when he’s not competing. Jason’s achievements inspire and motivate others to strive for excellence, and his impact on wood chopping is legendary.

Reuben de Jong - auckland

Highland Heavies

Reuben de Jong is an all-around athletic powerhouse! With a background in both Highland Games and Strongman competitions, Reuben has racked up an impressive collection of titles and achievements. In Strongman, Reuben is a two-time NZ Strongest Man champion and holds multiple national records in stone lifting, Farmers Walk, and Conan’s Wheel. He even came in second in the NZ Strongest Man competition in 2017 after a 13-year gap. In Highland Games, Reuben shines as a two-time Oceania Highland Games champion and a three-time winner of the NZ Rural Games. He’s got the skills and the strength to stand tall on the podium and holds the NZ record for the 56lb weight for height at an impressive 17 feet. Reuben’s not just a strongman – he’s a versatile athlete. He’s won numerous titles in Mixed Martial Arts and professional wrestling and even appeared in films, TV shows, and commercials, showcasing his acting talent. Despite facing stiff competition from world-class athletes, Reuben continues to shine and inspire others. His drive, talent, and diverse background make him a true all-around athlete, and he’s not slowing down anytime soon!

dr luk chin - tamahere, waikato

harness racing

Dr Luk Chin is a true legend in harness racing! With over four decades of experience, he’s still going strong at the age of 80 and continues to inspire many in the sport. Dr Chin has dedicated his life to both his work as an anaesthesiologist and his love for horses and harness racing. He trains and races all his horses, bred by him, in Tamahere near Cambridge. He’s never bought a horse and has never stopped being involved in harness racing. In 2021 and 2022, Dr Chin’s horses made a big impact, with two running in the Harness Jewels and three winning within 24 hours. He competes against the best in the country and specializes in trotters that he has bred and trained himself. With over 100 wins as both a driver and trainer, Dr Chin had his best season in 2022 at the age of 79. Although his work in the health field and his harness racing commitments keep him busy, Dr Chin still manages to pursue other interests. He was instrumental in starting the Anglesea clinic in Hamilton and is currently involved in developing health hubs in Cambridge and Pukekohe. With his future goal to breed, own, train, and drive a Group 1 winner, Dr Luk Chin remains a true inspiration in harness racing.

The Sir Brian Lochore Memorial Award for Outstanding Sportsperson from a Rural Background

jordy barrett

all black

Jordy Barrett grew up in Pungarehu in South Taranaki

Jordy Barrett grew up on a farm in Pungarehu in South Taranaki with his seven siblings – three of whom have donned the All Blacks jersey. A utility back for the All Blacks and the Hurricanes, Jordy made his 2017 debut for New Zealand against Samoa and has since been impressing fans with his skills. Barrett has represented New Zealand at the age-grade level and was part of the 2016 under-20 side that took part in the World Championships in England. He also plays for Taranaki at the provincial level.

Chelsea Bremner

black fern

Chelsea Bremner grew up in Little River, Banks Peninsula

Chelsea Bremner from Little River on Banks Peninsula made her Black Ferns debut on in 2020 against the New Zealand Barbarians, and her international debut against Australia last year. Bremner was selected for the Black Ferns 2021 Rugby World Cup 32-player squad and scored the opening try against. In 2019, she was named the Farah Palmer Cup Player of the Year.

Courtney Duncan

Motorcoss

Courtney Duncan grew up in Palmerston, South Otago

Courtney Duncan grew up in Palmerston (the southern one) in Otago. In 2019, she won the first of her three FIM Women’s Motocross World Championships, with nine wins from ten races.

Georgina Ponsonby

black fern

Georgina Ponsonby grew up in Feilding

Georgia Ponsonby debuted for Manawatū in the Farah Palmer Cup in 2017, while in her last year at Feilding High School. Ponsonby moved to Christchurch. She made her Black Ferns debut off the bench against France in Pau in 2021 and was a member of the Black Ferns Rugby World Cup 2021 winning squad.

Kerri Williams (nee Gowler) MNZM

Double Olympian Coxless Pair &Women’s Eight

Kerri Gowler MNZM grew up in Raetihi & Marton

Kerri Williams (nee Gowler) MNZM | Rangitāne: Olympic champion and double medallist, a three-time world champion and 2019 world champion in both the coxless pair and the women’s eight. Kerry was born in Raetihi and attended school in Marton.

Tim Southee

black cap

Tim Southee who grew up in Whangarei

Tim Southee from Whangarei, Tim plays for the New Zealand cricket team in all formats. He is the captain in Tests, and vice-captain in T20Is. Southee is a right-arm fast-medium bowler and a lower-order batsman who can hit some big shots. He’s one of the youngest players to represent Aotearoa, debuting at 19, and made a big impact on his Test debut by taking 5 wickets and scoring 77 runs off 40 balls. He was even named captain for a T20I match against West Indies and led his team to a 47-run victory!