The stage is set for an electrifying showcase of rural sports prowess as the finalists for the Ford Ranger New Zealand Rural Sports Awards 2024 have been unveiled.
The Ford Ranger New Zealand Rural Sports Awards, this prestigious event is a celebration of the indomitable spirit and excellence within the rural sports community.
Ford Motor Company of New Zealand Limited Managing Director Simon Rutherford said the Ford New Zealand Rural Sports Awards provide a platform to recognise the extraordinary talent and dedication of athletes who embody the true essence of rural New Zealand.
“These finalists represent the pinnacle of excellence in their respective sports, embodying the values of dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship that define rural New Zealand and this is why we are so pleased to support and recognise them,” said Simon.
Taking place at the iconic Awapuni Racing Centre on Friday, March 8, 2024, during the Ford Ranger New Zealand Rural Games Weekend, the awards ceremony promises to be a night to remember, bringing together athletes, enthusiasts, and supporters from across the nation.
The finalists for each category are as follows:
PTS Logistics New Zealand Rural Sportsman of the Year
Bob Merhtens, 69 years-old of Timaru
Ploughing
Jack Jordan - 27 years-old of Taumarunui
Timbersports
Neil Evans, 65 years-old of Omihi, North Canterbury
Sheepdog Trials
The RX Plastics New Zealand Rural Sportswoman of the Year Award
Samantha Ottley, 32 years-old from Christchurch
Harness Racing
Sacha Bond, 30 years-old from Piopio in the King Country
Shearing Sports
Anne Paterson, 32 years-old expat from Blackbutt, Queensland
Timbersports
The Fonterra Young New Zealand Rural Sportsperson of the Year Award
Clay Harris, 21 years-old from Mokauiti in the King Country
Shearing Sports
Wilson House, 19 years-old from Christchurch formerly Manawatū
Harness Racing
The Freebairn & Hehir Lawyers Outstanding Contribution to New Zealand Rural Sports Award
Nigel Armstrong of Christchurch
Harness Racing
Bronwyn Troon of Taihape
Gumboot Throwing
Erana Stevens-Tulip of Te Kuiti
Shearing
Courtesy Ford Lifetime Legacy Award
Pat Hellier from Kamo but living in Papamoa
Highland Games
Wayne Newdick from Taumarunui
Fencing
The Ford Ranger New Zealand Rural Sports Awards will also feature the presentation of two additional awards, the Future Post Rural Sportsperson with a Disability, The Sir Brian Lochore Memorial Award for Outstanding Sportsperson from a Rural Background supported by Higgins Concrete. Moreover, judges will select one overall winner to receive the prestigious Ford Supreme New Zealand Rural Sportsperson Award.
