ANZ Ashburton Relationship Associate Jake Jarman has been crowned the FMG Young Farmer of the Year 2021 - on his first time entering.
Jake, 24, represented the Taranaki Manawatu region in the competition, which has been running now for 53 years.
His win was announced on Saturay night at a glitzy event at the Wigram Airforce Museum in Christchurch.
Jake said he was absolutely rapt to receive the main award, as well as the Agribusiness, Agri Sports and Agri Knowledge awards.
"Feeling overwhelmed, excited and relieved that it's over!"
Entrants were judged on a range of rural skills and knowledge, including a gruelling practical day packed full of physical and technical challenges.
"My fellow competitors certainly didn’t make it easy and, honestly, I feel like it was anyone's game for the whole three days.
"It’s been a privilege getting to know them and to now call them friends."
ANZ NZ Managing Director Business Lorraine Mapu said Jake had competed superbly to take out the well-deserved win.
"We’re all incredibly proud of Jake, and we’re lucky to have such a talented member of our Ashburton team," she said.
"Congratulations, Jake, from everyone here at ANZ."
New Zealand Young Farmers CEO Lynda Coppersmith said he was a fantastic representative for the contest, and for the agriculture, food and fibre sector.
"As a first-time competitor, it has been amazing to watch Jake shine and not just 'give it a go', but take out the title," Lynda said.
"Jake is a fantastic leader for the ag sector, a role model and has already inspired other young people to believe in themselves and showcase what they’re made of.
"It’s incredibly exciting to see what lies ahead for Jake and as the 2021 FMG Young Farmer of the Year, we are grateful to be able to be part of that."
Jake's total prize package for winning the competition amounted to more than $75,000.
Find out more about the FMG Young Farmer of the Year competition here.
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