YFCU members pull together in the annual Tug of War competition’

The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) were once again supported by Thompsons Feeding Innovation for their annual Tug of War competition. The event took place on the cattle lawn at Balmoral Show on Thursday 14^th May 2026.

The competition consisted of three sections, which were Ladies, Men’s Novice and Men’s Advanced. There were 19 teams in total, with representation from 13 different clubs. Clubs in the Ladies section were County Armagh YFC, Moycraig YFC, Spa YFC, Holestone YFC and Lisnamurrican YFC. Clubs in the Men’s Novice section were Finvoy YFC, Glarryford YFC, Donaghadee YFC, Lisnamurrican YFC, Collone YFC, Mountnorris YFC, Moycraig YFC, Kilraughts YFC, Spa YFC and Straid YFC. Clubs in the Men’s Advanced section were Randalstown YFC, Glarryford YFC, Lisnamurrican YFC and. Derg Valley YFC. Each team had six members pulling and one substitute.

133 members across Northern Ireland showcased their strength in the thrilling contest. Barrie Barr was thanked for his help and advice in organising the competition, as well as Vernon Hurst, Pat Kernan and Hugh McFetridge, who refereed and helped to steward the event. Representing Thompson’s Feeding Innovation on the day were Robyn McConnell and Philip Donaldson, who handed out medals at the prize giving. Kristina Fleming (YFCU President) took the opportunity at the end of the event to thank all members, staff, referees, stewards and sponsors for coming together and making the event a success. She explained, “Balmoral Show once again highlighted the strength and spirit of our Young Farmers community. Our members shone throughout the week, demonstrating the talent, leadership and passion that define YFCU. I’m incredibly proud of how the members represented both our organisation and the future of Northern Ireland’s Agricultural industry”.