Clonakilty Agricultural College was the proud host of the 2025 Macra and Teagasc Colleges Challenges Day, held on Wednesday, 12th February. Eight teams from agricultural, equine and horticultural colleges across the country gathered to compete in a range of events designed to test their skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.
This event has been running in different formats for many years. The current format is in its 15th year and has evolved to reflect modern, as well as traditional practices. It featured competitions in traditional stock judging, tractor driving, welding, fencing and low-cloche construction, as well as a mix of sporting challenges and practical challenges using online tools to innovatively address challenges faced by modern land use.
When it came to the NBI sponsored Farm Business and Technology Award, it was Ballyhaise Agricultural College from Co. Cavan that edged the judges’ decision, with this year’s challenge centred around the use of online technologies to analyse a given area and to propose practical solutions to protect the quality of water in that area.
Niall Beirne, Head of Corporate Communications at NBI, spotlighted technology as a critical tool in modern land use practice, “The NBI Farm Business and Technology Challenge focuses on how technology enhances farming, and this was particularly evident with this year’s challenge which focussed on protecting water quality. In successive years of this competition, the standard of knowledge and use of technology to support land-based sectors of agriculture, horticulture and equine continues to rise. NBI are delighted to see this continued progression, demonstrated by the friendly but fiercely competitive preparation and engagement from the colleges. Congratulations to all the students, and particularly Ballyhaise Agricultural College, on their success.”
Dr AnneMarie Butler, Head of Education at Teagasc, highlighted the value of the event for students, “Challenges Day is an important event in the Teagasc education calendar, giving students the opportunity to put their skills into practice, work together, and engage in friendly competition. It’s fantastic to see the energy and enthusiasm from all the colleges. We are proud to work with Macra, Farm Services and National Broadband Ireland in delivering this event and wish all participants continued success in their studies and careers.”
Macra President Elaine Houlihan acknowledged the dedication of the students and organisers, “Macra is delighted to work with Teagasc, Farm Services and National Broadband Ireland (NBI) to run this fantastic event. The commitment and enthusiasm of the students were evident in every competition, and it was great to see such a high level of participation. These young farmers and rural professionals are the future of the industry, and events like this help develop their skills and confidence.”
The 2025 Colleges Challenges Day was a celebration of skill, teamwork, and agricultural excellence. Congratulations to all the participants, and a special well done to Clonakilty Agricultural College who won the overall competition.