FBD Young Farmer of the Future
John MacNamara’s success in the competition, run by Macra na Feirme in partnership with the IFA, was announced at an awards ceremony in Bloomfield House Hotel, Mullingar, Co Westmeath.
He was presented with the top prize of a specially commissioned sculpture by Irish artist Raymond Kinghan, a travel bursary worth €2,500 and €1,000 spending money.
Mr MacNamara said it was a great honour to accept the award on behalf of his Macra club in Kilmallock, his IFA branch in Hospital and his county, Limerick.
He paid particular tribute to his wife, Olivia, who was present, and his parents Paddy and Mary for having given him the chance to farm.
Thirty contestants from all over Ireland took part in the final of the competition, now in its seventh year. The aims are to recognise excellence in agriculture and promote farming as a career with a bright future.
Second and third place prize winners were Pat Murphy, Ardrahan, Co Galway, and Bryan Daniels, Kilmoganny, Co Kilkenny.
A judging panel chaired by former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds interviewed six overall finalists according to specific criteria.
This included innovation in farm business management, efficiency in farming, farm safety, environmental protection awareness, agricultural knowledge and community involvement.
Mr Reynolds said the competition highlights the exceptional qualities that exist in our latest generation of farmers.
