The eighth annual Britain’s Fittest Farmer competition kicked off on 18 June at the Lincolnshire Show, under a scorching sun that added to the challenge.
Farmers from across the region battled the heat and each other in tests of strength and stamina, flipping tractor tyres, pulling 4x4s, and lifting heavy sandbags.
Friends and family cheered on the competitors, creating an atmosphere buzzing with camaraderie and determination.
See also: Tips for farm fitness from last year’s Britain’s Fittest Farmer winner
Will Arden, head judge of this year’s competition, said: “The first qualifier at the Lincolnshire Show went really well.
“All the competitors put in a great effort and some very impressive performances in the boiling sun.
“We’re excited for the next two qualifiers and looking forward to see how everyone does.”
Sarah Tween, competing in the under-40s women’s category, farms in Suffolk and keeps sheep in Norfolk.
She spoke about how fitness plays a crucial role in her wellbeing.
“Today has been tough, I thought it would be, but I’m really glad I’ve done it.
“It’s pushed me out of my comfort zone, there is so much strength in taking time out for this competition.”
Sarah added: “It’s so important to take time for yourself in farming. The escape for me is keeping fit.
“I have noticed such improvements in my mental health since concentrating on exercise alongside farming.
“I have built a community that supports each other in keeping fit, physically and mentally.”
Preparation
In the under-40 men’s category, George Lockton, a sheep contractor from south Lincolnshire, joked about his preparation.
“I haven’t done any training, I probably should have though, but to be fair, going to work is my training.”
His good humour reflected the friendly spirit of the day, where competitors pushed themselves, but also supported one another.
This year’s charity partner, the Farming Community Network (FCN), was present to raise awareness about mental health in farming.
© MAG/Albie Matthews
Helpline
FCN provides a confidential helpline and FarmWell resources for farmers and their families.
Amy Everatt, regional support officer for the eastern counties and the Midlands, said: “I’m a poultry farmer myself and it’s so important to get offsite to events like this, it’s a mental break. Farming can be so isolating.”
Rachel Davey, FCN marketing and events officer, praised the event.
“Every year it grows significantly which is so encouraging
“It shows farmers are getting a little better at looking after their physical and mental health… bringing physical and mental health into focus is so important and this event encapsulates all we are trying to do at FCN.”
Hosted by Farmers Weekly, Britain’s Fittest Farmer is more than just a contest, it’s a celebration of fitness, friendship, and wellbeing in farming communities across the country.
© MAG/Albie Matthews
The competition continues with qualifiers at the Great Yorkshire Show on 8 July and the Royal Welsh Show on 24 July, giving farmers across the UK multiple chances to compete.
With £1,000 prizes for each category winner, the event remains a powerful incentive to stay fit and healthy.
How to enter
Head over to the Britain’s Fittest Farmer website, and upload a photo or short video of yourself
Select the qualifier venue and the category that you are entering
Remember to tell us about how you stay mentally and physically fit for farming, and what makes you a great ambassador for the industry
Don’t forget to add your contact details so we can get in touch
