Shearers gather to test their skills

Get ready for the buzz of the blades.

On Saturday, Rangitikei Shearing Sports hosts its 51st annual shearing competition in Marton.

One of the largest contests in the country, Rangitikei Shearing Sports includes the North Island Shearing Championships, and this year also features the fourth round of the PGG Wrightson Lamb Shear competition. It brings together shearers and woolhandlers from all over New Zealand, and overseas, to test their skills against the best in the business.

There are five classes for shearers - open, senior, intermediate, junior and novice, and four classes for woolhandlers - open, senior, junior and novice.

Local shearers are able to compete for special awards. The Peter Coleman Memorial Trophy is awarded to the shearer with the best quality points in the heats for all grades, and the Betty Rakatairi Trophy for the cleanest pen in the heats.

The day starts at 8.30am and close to 1000 sheep will be shorn before the contest finishes around 5pm.

Everyone is welcome to come to the Memorial Hall in Wellington Rd to watch the action. There's no admission charge, just come along and and experience the shearing buzz.

The competition wouldn't happen without its many supporters and helpers, financial and practical. Rangitikei Shearing Sports committee member Belinda Howard would like to thank everyone who has helped this year.