Ballyhaise crowned overall champions
After a highly competitive day, Ballyhaise Agriculture team claimed the overall title in the 2026 Ag Colleges Challenge Day.
The college team also secured victories in Welding, Tractor Driving, Fencing and the Final Team Challenge.
Organised by Teagasc and Macra the Challenge Day was hosted at Ballyhaise Agricultural College on Wednesday, February 11.
Seven colleges took part in a full day of practical and skills-based competitions designed to test teamwork, technical ability and problem-solving across a range of land-based disciplines. Competing teams represented Salesian College, Ballyhaise Forestry, Ballyhaise Agriculture, Mountbellew College, Kildalton College Equine, Kildalton College Agriculture and Gurteen College.
“It is a great opportunity for students to participate and represent their respective colleges, and for students to meet, network and compete with each other across a range of skills and activities,” said Stan Lalor, Teagasc Director of Knowledge Transfer of the Challenge Day.
The Ag Colleges Challenge Day brought together Level 5 students from across the country to demonstrate the practical skills and teamwork essential for careers in agriculture, horticulture, forestry and equine sectors. The event also featured the FRS Memorial Scholarship competition, offering the winner a three-month placement with FRS.
John Kelly, Principal of Teagasc Ballyhaise, was happy to see the event return to the college; “We were absolutely delighted to host the Ag Colleges Challenge Day here at Ballyhaise for the first time since 2014. It was a fantastic occasion for the college and for agricultural education more broadly. We worked very closely with Macra and FRS in organising the event, and that strong partnership ensured a very successful and enjoyable day for all involved. I am particularly proud of our students, not only for representing the college so well throughout the competition, but also for winning the overall title. It was a tremendous achievement and a credit to their hard work, skill and teamwork.”
Colette McInerney, Head of Operations with FRS, who sponsor the event said the day “showcased an exceptional level of knowledge, effort, and professionalism” from the students.
“It is very encouraging to see learners demonstrating such a high level of skill in all areas. Congratulations to Ballyhaise Agricultural College for winning this year’s FRS Fencing competition and Adam Doran from Roscommon (Mountbellew Ag College) on winning the FRS Presentation.”
Macra National President Josephine O’Neill congratulated participants, saying: “It was clear that all teams put a huge effort into preparing for the day, with many different skills and talents demonstrated throughout the day. Congratulations to all winners, but particularly to the overall winners Ballyhaise Agricultural College. I’m already looking forward to next year!”