The Young Farmer of the Year Award for 2000 was won at the weekend in Christchurch by ... a lawyer.
Blenheim man Andrew Finch, 26, works as a solicitor in the Marlborough town during the week, but is also a part-time farmer.
His background meant the competition's practical and agrisport sections weren't
his strong points, Mr Finch said.
"The last three days have been very hard, both physically and mentally," he said.
"I do not have the day to day practical experience of the other contestants, and I knew that I wouldn't be as strong in the practical parts of the competition."
Despite that Mr Finch entered Saturday's final session of the competition in first place, having scored highly in the interview and technical sections.
Timaru's Stephen Jack made second place, despite pressing hard in the final round in a bid to catch up with Mr Finch.
Gene Roberts of Te Puke was third, and Andrew Fenemor of Dannevirke was fourth.
- NZPA
