John Kirkpatrick Claims 15th Central Hawke’s Bay Shears Title

Veteran shearing champion John Kirkpatrick successfully defended his title at the Central Hawke’s Bay A and P Show on March 2, 2024. This victory marks his 15th win at this prestigious event, held in Waipukurau, and comes 31 years after his first triumph in the open class at the Wairarapa show in 1994.

Kirkpatrick, who is now 55 years old, demonstrated exceptional skill and resilience throughout the competition. In the first five weekends of the current season, he achieved notable placements including third at Waimate, second at Gisborne, and another third at the Wairarapa Show. His consistent performances reaffirm his status as a formidable contender in the shearing circuit as he aims to enhance an already impressive record. This includes the 2017 world title, four Golden Shears open titles, two National Shearing Circuit titles, and three New Zealand Shears open titles.

The recent competition showcased Kirkpatrick’s expertise as he sheared a final batch of five woolly hoggets in an impressive time of 13 minutes and 52.34 seconds. This time was the second fastest of the day, and he also recorded the highest quality points among competitors. His performance surpassed that of Gavin Mutch, the pacemaker and 2012 World Champion, by a significant margin of 2.165 points.

Kirkpatrick’s victory is particularly noteworthy considering his recovery from major shoulder surgery two years ago. This achievement not only highlights his enduring talent but also his determination to remain at the top of the sport. As the shearing season continues, Kirkpatrick’s past accolades and recent performances suggest that he will remain a key player in the upcoming competitions.

The Central Hawke’s Bay A and P Show continues to be a vital event in the shearing calendar, attracting top talent and providing a platform for seasoned competitors like Kirkpatrick. His latest victory adds to the rich history of the event and sets the stage for a thrilling season ahead.