Mey ploughman wins bronze medal at European championships – ‘It’s 20 years since a Scotsman had a final-day podium’
James Tait from Mey ploughed his way to a respectable third position in a ploughing championship match in England over the first weekend of March.
James, who is a tractor driver at Greenland Mains Farm, represented Scotland at the 40th European Ploughing Federation Reversible Championships in Retford, England on March 1-2, having qualified as runner-up at the Scottish National Championships in October last year.
This was the fourth time James had represented Scotland at the European Championships, having also represented his country at the World Ploughing Championships in 2023 in Latvia.
Christine Tait, James’ wife, said: “The standard was very high with many world-class ploughmen taking part. James ploughed with his Case International tractor and Kverneland plough.”
The European event was well organised with 22 competitors from 11 countries in the reversible butt class. The European Vintage Championships were also held at the same time.
“The weather over the two days was glorious and perfect for ploughing. The competition was well supported by both the local community and further afield – some with Caithness connections,” added Christine.
She added: “There were many trade stands and huge support for the farming community in general.
“James practiced on the Thursday and Friday before taking part in the competition on Saturday and Sunday. He was lying in fourth position after day one but, despite a few breakdowns, managed with skill, determination and some of his finest work to date, to clinch third place and a podium spot on the final day, resulting in a bronze medal for Scotland.”
It is 20 years since a Scotsman had a final-day podium position in this class at the European Championships. Dan Donnelly (previous European champion) and John Whelan (previous world champion) from the Republic of Ireland secured first and second places respectively.
This rounded off a very successful year of competition ploughing for James, having been crowned reversible champion at both local matches, and also taking the top prize at Easter Ross and the Black Isle events.
Now that the ploughing season is over James will concentrate on getting his equipment match ready for October when everything will kick off in earnest once again.