Nathan Stratford, the multi-breeds shearing legend, added another feather to his cap as he was awarded a brand-new Hyundai Santa Fe for a year at a presentation held at PGG Wrightson in Invercargill. This event marked his third victory of the PGG Wrightson/Vetmed National Shearing Circuit, a feat celebrated by the local community and shearing enthusiasts.

Stratford's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. With a remarkable career spanning 27 seasons as an open-class shearer, he has carved a way for himself in the shearing world. Boasting an impressive tally of 85 open-final wins and a World teams' championship title in 2017, Stratford's dedication and skill have earned him widespread admiration.

His recent triumph at the Golden Shears in Masterton, where he claimed victory for the third time, underpins his status as a shearing icon. Despite declining the Trans-Tasman test match opportunity that accompanied his win, Stratford remains committed to international competition, setting his sights on securing a spot in the 2026 World Championships.

Pictured from left to right: Shane Youngman Branch Manager, GWD Hyundai Southland. Emma McLeod-McCallum -  Agritrade Territory Manager, Garth Cleland - PGG Wrightson Retail Sales Manager Southland, Nathan Statford, Gina Sim - Hyundai South Island National Fleet Representative. 

Jason Everson, Product and Innovation Manager for  PGG Wrightson Wool, emphasised the significance of Stratford's achievement, stating, “It takes hard work and dedication to win this prestigious competition three times, and we congratulate Nathan for that, along with all the other athletes that competed across the various rounds. Shearing multiple sheep breeds certainly takes skill and is no mean feat.”

Paul Senior, a representative for Vetmed added, “We are pleased to be a sponsor in an event that tests a shearer’s ability to maintain quality and speed at the same time, we see shearing as an important role on the farm. Nathan's energy and commitment towards his sport is second to none and the Vetmed team wishes him well in his quest to take the world champ crown in 2026!”

Reflecting on his illustrious career, Stratford expressed gratitude for the support he has received from his sponsors, fans, and the shearing community at large. He emphasised his ongoing passion for the sport and his desire to continue competing at the highest level.

"I am honoured to receive this award and grateful for the support of PGG Wrightson and Vetmed," said Stratford. "I look forward to further representing New Zealand on the international stage."

Hyundai New Zealand, a supporter of the rural sector, reiterated their commitment to the partnership with PGG Wrightson and their support for events like the Golden Shears.

"Hyundai New Zealand is passionate in our support of the rural sector," said Scott Kelsey, CEO of Hyundai New Zealand. "It’s a building block of our country and an important part of our future. We’re honoured to partner with PGG Wrightson and help support the National Shearing Circuit. A huge congrats to Nathan on the win, I’m sure he’ll have a great time in his new Santa Fe."

The presentation ceremony was attended by members of the shearing community, and sponsors, all of whom came together to celebrate Nathan Stratford's remarkable achievements and his continued contributions to the sport of shearing.