John finishes runner-up in world ploughing event for fourth time

CARLOW farmer John Treacy has set a remarkable record by finishing as runner-up in the World Ploughing Championships for the fourth time.

Competing at Bellechasse, Switzerland, against the best ploughmen of 28 nations, John finished second to Martin Kirnstedter, Austria, having previously been runner-up in 1973, 1974 and 1980.

He also took first place and won the gold medal for grassland ploughing against strong opposition to enhance his achievement.